The Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, this week approved the publication of the Health Service Executive’s Building and Equipment Capital Plan for 2026. This plan brings an investment of over €63.6 million to Galway as part of a €1.3 billion allocation nationally for the development and enhancement of healthcare infrastructure according to the Minister for Education, Hildegarde Naughton TD.
Minister Naughton said the investments set out in the 2026 HSE Capital plan shows our commitment to improve Galway’s health service facilities and ensure better access to care for our patients. Investing in our health service is important as our population grows, with many people living longer, healthier lives.
“Today’s announcement, including investment in the new Surgical Hub, Elective Hospital, replacement Community Nursing Unit and Phase 2 of the Outpatient Department in Merlin Park, is welcome news that will help bring healthcare services closer to home and better meet the needs of patients and families in our community.”
“Additionally, today’s plan also includes significant funding to progress the Masterplan for University Hospital Galway through design and feasibility stages. The first phase of this plan will see 2 additional ward blocks constructed on the grounds of University Hospital Galway as part of the national Acute Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion Plan,” she said.
“Given last week’s misleading reports, and for which the HSE have apologised, I feel it important to reiterate that today’s Capital Plan includes €2.245 million to complete the necessary works in order that designs for our new Elective Hospital in Merlin Park are submitted to planning this year.
Both I and the Minister for Health are fully committed to advancing healthcare infrastructure in Galway and the West and today’s announcement is further proof of that,” she concluded.
