Kids' Hospital Won't Be Ready Until Late 2024

Officials refuse to reveal cost of ‘runaway train’

- Cate McCurry

OFFICIALS have refused to disclose the updated cost of the National Children’s Hospital as it emerged the opening date has been pushed back to late 2024.

Chief officer of the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board David Gunning said even a hypothetical discussion would prejudice the existing contract with construction company BAM.

The facility, which is being built on the site of St James’s Hospital in Dublin, has been beset by spiralling costs escalating to €1.433billion.

However, with no update on the projected bill, some TDs believe it could rise to €2billion.

Sinn Fein’s David Cullinane said it is “disappointing” that Department of Health and hospital officials have not provided updated costs and clarity around timeframes.