187. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health her views on the urgent need for capital investment in the department of psychiatry, Kilkenny. [52297/26]

As Minister, I have previously set out my priorities for capital projects for 2026, with over €40m allocated to initiate and progress mental health infrastructure projects this year.

The funding represents another record level of investment in 43 separate mental health capital projects across the country, with annual investment set to increase further over the next four years.

The investment for 2026 is the first tranche of funding to be allocated from an overall total of €470m earmarked for mental health projects in the National Development Plan 2026-2030. The Department and the HSE are working together as part of a Working Group to progress a 10-year Capital Plan for Mental Health shortly which will set out a strategic investment plan to maximise the unprecedented level of investment in the mental health capital estate.

The Mental Health Capital Plan for 2026 also includes the Acute Mental Health Unit, St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny.

As this relates to an operational matter, it has been forwarded to the HSE for direct reply to you.