Back in October or November of last year there was a meeting between the HSE, Cork City Council and the Departments of housing and health with a view to opening a day centre in Cork. We have more than 500 people who are homeless. They are in shelters at night but during the day they have no place to go except out on the street. This also relates to the Garda and justice. We have identified a building but need funding for its refurbishment. I note it is not included in the HSE capital plan. I ask that this issue be given priority. It would be a huge advantage to everyone. It is also about regenerating Cork city, the need to upgrade the city and the need to assist these people. The HSE has agreed it would move its staff into this centre. The staff it has employed to cater for people who are homeless cost about €2 million per annum, so there is no extra cost because the staff are already in place.

My understanding is HSE South West has developed a business case and that has been presented to the HSE and the Department of Health. I also understand it is a supported plan, so there are conversations and engagement happening to see how this plan can be funded and how it can be progressed for all the reasons the Deputy has outlined, including that we provide that support and that resource to people who need it most. There is a costed plan there and the intention is to see how funding can be secured.