Refusal of Dublin hospital's new wing 'short-sighted', says medical organisation

In the wake of the decision, the Rotunda Hospital said it would have 'devastating consequences' for women and infants who trust it with their care. File picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

The decision to refuse planning permission for a significant extension to the Rotunda Hospital in Dublin is “short-sighted and regrettable”, the Irish Medical Organisation has said.

In a statement, the chair of its consultants committee, Professor Matthew Sadlier, said An Coimisiún Pleanála’s decision to turn down the planning application to expand the maternity hospital emphasises the need for the Government to designate healthcare as “critical infrastructure”.