The construction of the new National Forensic Mental Health Services (NFMHS) facility is due to be completed by the end of this month, the Medical Independent (MI) has been told. The National Development Plan (NDP) 2018-2023 provided for the replacement of the Central Mental Hospital, Dundrum, with an “appropriate modern facility” in Portrane, Co Dublin.
“The construction of the new NFMHS is due to be completed in Q1, 2021, which will be followed by the equipping and commissioning stage,” a Department of Health spokesperson told the MI.
“There had been some delays due in part to the temporary occupation of buildings by patients during the response to Covid-19 national emergency.”
A full review of the NDP is expected to be completed this summer. The pandemic has impacted capital projects outlined in the NDP, including the “front-loaded delivery” of some projects, the Department’s spokesperson stated.
The NDP allocated €10.9 billion to health capital, encompassing funding for health building and equipment and health information and communications technology.
“The Department is currently engaging with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in the review of the NDP,” the spokesperson said.
They added that “lessons learned from Covid have had, and will continue to have, a significant impact on spend and priorities” in terms of health infrastructure.
“It has resulted in additional and front-loaded delivery of capital projects within months and will impact on future plans and requirements.”
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