117. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Health for an update on the plans for a new primary care centre in Graiguenamanagh; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48001/26]

I wish to thank the Deputy for allowing me to update the house on the new Primary Care Centre (PCC) for Graiguenamanagh in County Kilkenny.

The need for this Primary Care Centre in Gaiguenamanagh has been identified as part of the Health Service Executive’s (HSE’s) overall primary care centre development programme. This PCC is to be delivered via the HSE operational lease mechanism.

As the Deputy is aware, a tender process was undertaken, and a developer was selected. The developer submitted an application seeking a grant of planning permission for Graiguenamanagh PCC on 27th June 2025. The developer received a request for further information in September 2025 and the developer made a submission in response to same in January 2026.

The HSE has advised that Kilkenny County Council issued a decision to grant planning permission on 29th June 2026 to the developer with the final grant of planning permission due to issue in one month subject to observations.

After that time, the developer will issue a construction programme to the HSE which outlines target dates, including the commencement of construction works on site.

It is welcome news that the development of the new PCC in Graiguenamanagh is progressing and when opened, it is envisaged that a wide range of Primary Care therapy services, community nursing services and GP services will be delivered from the centre.