National Children's Hospital 'held hostage' in negotiations with BAM, health committee hears

David Gunning's remarks at the Oireachtas health committee stressed the lack of progress at the hospital project, noting that 'as of today not one room has been fully completed.' He highlighted that significant work remains, with around 3,100 rooms still awaiting approval. The absence of a detailed programme from BAM complicates the timeline, which may see delays if the necessary resources and standards are not met. Gunning implied that without accountability from the builders, further slippage in the project deadline is likely.

Phelim Devine, the project director, expressed frustration over the current state of the hospital construction, stating, 'We are averaging about 13 to 15 defects per room, on average. These aren't scuffs of paint. These are compliance issues.' This indicates substantial unaddressed faults in the construction, as he noted the builders are presenting incomplete rooms as finished. The commitment level of resources has been disappointing, complicating any hopes of a June 2025 completion.

Read at Irish Independent