The opening of the new National Children’s Hospital remains uncertain, though Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) anticipates it will occur approximately seven months after “the keys” are received and when it is deemed safe to do so. The update comes as concerns mount regarding the project’s timeline.
Delays and Cost Concerns
The National Paediatric Hospital Development Board (NPHDB) reported that the main builder, BAM Ireland, is currently scheduled to achieve substantial completion by April 30th. However, David Gunning, Chief Officer of the Board, stated that BAM has delayed the project’s completion 18 times over the past seven years.
As of February, the total cost incurred by the NPHDB reached €1.6 billion, including VAT. BAM Ireland has submitted 3,505 claims totaling €899 million, of which €53 million has been paid to date. Many of these claims are currently subject to legal proceedings, including conciliation, adjudication, and High Court cases.
Progress and Ongoing Work
Despite the delays, some progress has been made. Works have been completed on the lower ground level, level 0, and level 6 of the hospital. These areas have been clinically cleaned, and over 5,500 pieces of medical and non-medical equipment, including MRIs, CT scanners, and X-ray machines, have been installed. Over 2,850 of the 5,728 rooms have been validated as meeting contract standards.
CHI Chief Executive Lucy Nugent acknowledged public concern regarding the opening date and stated that the 5,000 staff across existing children’s hospital sites – Crumlin, Temple Street, and Tallaght – are eager for the new facility to open. Ms. Nugent also reported improvements in spinal surgery waiting times, with an average wait of 4.2 months as of December.
What’s Next?
The NPHDB will continue to pursue substantial completion from BAM Ireland, potentially withholding 15% of payments when progress is deemed non-compliant. If BAM meets the April 30th deadline, the hospital could potentially open around seven months later, pending safety assessments. However, given the history of delays, further postponements are possible. The final cost of the hospital remains unknown at this time.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the National Children’s Hospital expected to open?
CHI has stated the hospital will open when it is safe to do so, approximately seven months after receiving “the keys.”
How many times has the completion date been delayed?
BAM Ireland has delayed the substantial completion date 18 times over the past seven years, according to the NPHDB.
What is the current cost of the project?
As of the end of February, the total cost incurred by the NPHDB was €1.6 billion, including VAT.
What factors will ultimately determine when children and families can access care at the new National Children’s Hospital?
