380. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health when a report by a company (details supplied) on the cost overruns in the national children’s hospital will be published; the reason the report has been delayed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16304/19]

431. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Health when he expects a report (details supplied) on the national children's hospital overspend will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16544/19]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 380 and 431 together.

The independent review of escalation in costs in the New Children's Hospital undertaken by PwC has been completed, and was published today, following discussion by Government.

The report confirms that the Government decision in December 2018 to continue with this project, based on the advice available at the time, was the correct decision – any alternative course of action would have resulted in significant delay, increased costs and the possibility that the hospital would not be built. The report also points out areas of weakness that need to be addressed and strengthened to support the project to successful completion.

I will consider the report findings and recommendations in detail with the Minister for Public Expenditure & Reform, our respective Departments, the HSE and the Chair of the NPHDB and we will revert to Government next month setting out our considered response to the report.