The Government expects the Dáil and the taxpayer to issue “a blank cheque” to the builders of the new children’s hospital, Sinn Féin’s Pearse Doherty has said. The party’s finance spokesman said an update on the estimated cost was promised eight months ago after it emerged costings had gone from €600m to €1.7bn. Mr Doherty said the €650m price-tag and 2020 finish-date had been promised by Tánaiste Leo Varadkar as Health Minister. Replying for the Government, Green Party leader and Environment Minister, Eamon Ryan, said it was not possible to give a current estimated figure for the process which was ongoing. “We must try to learn from these problems and overcome delays, especially in relation to the planning process,” the Green Party leader said.

Source: Irish Independent July 08, 2021 11:48 UTC