Limerick is going to benefit from real investment and proper planning as a result of Project Ireland 2040.
Fine Gael Senator, Maria Byrne said the plan will support families and strengthen communities in Limerick, and will ensure sustainable growth for the future of the county.
Speaking about Project 2040 which was launched by the Government. Senator Byrne said:
“Funding for a new €210 million state-of-the-art Maternity Hospital that will be re-located to Dooradoyle, 96 new beds for UHL and a new ambulance base for Limerick are all included in the National Development Plan (NDP).”
“The inclusion of these projects means a multi-million investment in health infrastructure in the Mid-West. It also means that UHL will, in future, no longer be operating at crisis levels and that patients will have the dignity they deserve.”
Senator Byrne confirmed that St John’s Hospital will have to apply for the 90 replacement beds from the allocation of 2,600 long stay beds
“I understand from speaking to Minister Harris this morning that St John’s Hospital can apply for the 90 replacement beds through the allocation of 2,600 long stay beds announced today”
Senator Byrne continued by saying: “In the first version of Fine Gael’s Republic of Opportunity document, we said it is time to plan for what Ireland is going to look like in 2040.
“This is our plan for the future of Ireland. For the first time in the history of the State, our spatial planning is backed up with solid investment and it will deliver for our citizens.
“Our population is expected to have increased to 6 million people by 2040 and, without any State intervention, this will result in ongoing shift in population and jobs towards Dublin and the neighbouring counties. This is not in anyone’s interests.
“This sustainable planning for Limerick, backed by real investment, will support families and strengthen communities here. With Project Ireland 2040, Fine Gael is ensuring sustainable growth for the future of Limerick. What’s good for Limerick is also good for the surrounding region” Senator Byrne explained.
An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, said: “This is a plan for all our citizens – the old, the young, and the yet to be born, living in towns, in cities and in the countryside. It follows the spirit of Collins and Lemass, people who always strove to raise the prospects of every Irish citizen. It’s about ensuring that all parts of Ireland fulfil their potential. As we approach our 100th anniversary as a sovereign nation, it’s about investing to ensure our country is insulated against any possible challenges like Brexit. It’s a path to a positive, sustainable future”
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