The Minister for Health must take some share of responsibility for the latest delay to the National Children’s Hospital, according to Social Democrats TD Pádraig Rice.
Deputy Rice, who is the party’s health spokesperson, said:
“When questioned earlier today on when the new hospital would open, Minister Carroll Mac Neill flippantly suggested that people should ‘ask BAM’, the contractor.
“While it is infuriating that the National Children’s Hospital has now been delayed for the 15th time – which BAM must take some responsibility for – it is not acceptable for the Minister to lay all blame for this debacle at the feet of the contractor.
“The new hospital, which is desperately needed by young patients and their families, has been beset with endless delays, constantly shifting timelines and eyewatering cost overruns.
“This and previous governments involving the Minister’s own Fine Gael party must also be held to account for the botched handling of this project, which is set to cost taxpayers over €2.24 billion, with no certainty on the final price tag.
“The Minister cannot act as a casual bystander as yet another deadline for handing over the completed building to Children’s Health Ireland is missed. Ultimately, it is her department that is responsible for ensuring this hospital is delivered on time and within budget – something it has spectacularly failed to achieve.
“This is one of the most expensive capital projects ever undertaken in the history of the State. It is the Minister’s job to deliver this hospital and, instead of ducking and diving, she must answer questions about when it will open.”
September 4, 2025