Review panel endorses Mater site for new Children's Hospital

An independent review panel has endorsed the Mater site in Dublin as the best location for the new National Children's Hospital.

The panel was appointed by Health Minister James Reilly to evaluate the proposed site. It conducted a financial analysis carried out by architect John Cooper as well as a clinical review by four international experts

Its conclusions will now be put to the Cabinet and the health minister has said he will make a statement on the hospital this Wednesday.

A formal planning application still has to be made for the development, but ifs given the green light, the Mater Children's Hospital should be open to patients in 2015.

Some €30m has been spent on the project to date, with concerns having been expressed about the Mater location in relation to cost, design and access.

Announcing the independent review in May, Minister Reilly had said the Government was committed to the construction of a new children’s hospital and recognised the need to ensure that the project is delivered in the most cost effective way and with the maximum benefit for patients.

“It is my intention to ensure the best possible clinical outcomes for children within the resources available”, the Minister said.

The panel's endorsement of the Mater site was this evening welcomed Fianna Fáil spokesperson on health Billy Kelleher.

“The children of Ireland and their families need access to the best possible healthcare," Deputy Kelleher said.

"This can be delivered through the new national children’s hospital at the Mater. I look forward to a positive announcement in this regard being made by the Minister this week."