Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 May 2024
16. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health the details of the investment and enhancement in services at a hospital (details supplied) since becoming Minister; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19494/24]
View answerAs Minister for Health I am committed to the development of regional hospitals such as Cavan and Monaghan Hospitals. There has been a significant increase in investment in recent years in these hospitals. In 2020 the combined budget was €115m. In 2024 the budget was €139m, an increase of 21%.
Staffing across the hospitals has grown by 348, from 1,161 in 2020 to 1,509 in 2024, a 30% increase.
Since 2020, 28 new beds have been opened across Cavan and Monaghan Hospitals, an 8% increase from 345 to 373 in 2024.
In addition to the expansion of hours for the Minor Injury Unit at Monaghan Hospital, which now operates 12 hours a day 7 days a week, there are a number of developments underway at Cavan and Monaghan hospitals, including:
• A new three storey extension block at Cavan is at detailed design stage, proposed to house a new endoscopy unit and an 18-bed ward.
• A further three storey extension for Oncology and Asceptic Units is at design feasibility stage for Cavan.
• At Monaghan Hospital, there is ongoing development of pain services, Haemochromatosis Services and early supported discharge teams along with expansion of cardiology services.
These new developments will enhance the services available at Cavan and Monaghan Hospitals, for the benefit of patients.
