THE James Connolly Memorial hospital in Blanchardstown, Dublin, is to be redeveloped with an initial expenditure of £8 million.
The Minister of State for Health, Mr Austin Currie, said yesterday the hospital would receive this funding to improve facilities. He was launching its development plan while opening a £500,000 extension to the radiology department. The hospital will also get a CT scanner.
The JCM hospital is one of three general Eastern Health Board hospitals. The others are St Colmcille's in Loughlinstown and Naas General Hospital.
Mr Currie said the radiology extension would include new Xray and ultrasound facilities and the CT scanner would allow rapid diagnosis and treatment in emergencies.
Ms Joan Burton, Minister of State for Justice, who attended the launch, welcomed provisions for upgrading the accident and emergency service.