Construction confirmation date for second cath lab for University Hospital Waterford a significant milestone – Cummins

Confirmation of a contractor for work to begin in May on the construction of the second permanent cath lab for University Hospital Waterford is a significant milestone in the quest for equitable cardiac treatment across the South East region, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator John Cummins said he has also received important confirmation that the second cath lab will have the same equipment as recently installed in the newly upgraded existing cath lab and will have full interventional capabilities.

Senator Cummins said: “Further to my statement on the 8^th February, I wish to reiterate that it has been confirmed that the new equipment to be installed in the second permanent cath lab will be the same as that which was installed in the recently upgraded existing cath lab and will have full interventional capabilities.

Senator Cummins said: “I accept that it has taken the HSE too long to progress this tender from when Minister Harris approved the construction of the second permanent cath lab. However this is a significant milestone on an issue that has had cross-party support for quite some time and it is very important that we acknowledge this development.

“I would like to thank the people of the region and the campaign groups who have kept this topic at the top of the political agenda over the past number of years.

“As confirmed to me by Gerry O’Dwyer, Group CEO, South / South West Hospital Group, the second cath lab will have full interventional capabilities.

“There had been fears locally that it would only be capable of carrying out diagnostics and I am pleased to confirm again that is not the case. As such we will have two mirror labs with full interventional capabilities.

“The manager of University Hospital Waterford has also confirmed to Oireachtas members that the Cardiac service there will expand its hours from 8am to 8pm seven days a week when covid restrictions allow, having been trialled prior to Christmas.

“I look forward to the extension of the service in the time ahead.”

ENDS