Department warns Minister of rising costs for new Children's Hospital

The new Minister for Health Simon Harris is being warned of increased costs for the National Children's Hospital.

The Department of Health says due to an expected 7.5% rise in building prices this year, the project is expected to cost more than the €650m originally budgeted.

The warning is contained in Mr Harris' briefing documents for his new job.

The Department says it is currently examining the increase and is preparing new estimates for Minister Harris.