100. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health when a project (details supplied) will proceed to the next stage; the level of new and upgraded facilities that will be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48294/26]

I would like to thank the Deputy for this opportunity to address the House on this important matter.

The 2026 Capital Plan provides for two significant projects at Cavan General Hospital:

First is a three-storey extension block to increase capacity of the Oncology Unit. This project is moving to detailed design in Q3 of this year.

The second project is to provide a multistorey extension to house the relocated Emergency Department (ED) and a new Endoscopy Unit.

I am delighted to confirm that contracts for the Endoscopy and ED extension project have been signed, and that it is envisioned that construction will commence this Summer.

This five-storey extension to the existing building will accommodate a relocated Emergency Department, a relocated & expanded Endoscopy Unit, 56 new beds of Inpatient Ward accommodation and ancillary plant associated with the build.

The relocation of the current Emergency Department & Endoscopy Unit will in turn free up additional clinical space within the hospital for other services.

This project is expected to improve patient flow, alleviate pressures and improve patient outcomes aligned with long-term national healthcare goals. It is designed to the latest standards for energy efficient design.

It is my intention to visit Cavan General Hospital later this month for the official sod-turning of this important project, which will improve services and increase capacity at Cavan General Hospital.