A new Ophthalmology Theatre will be established at University Hospital Waterford (UHW).
The theatre on Level 2 of the hospital has been included in the Health Service’s 2021 Capital Programme.
Announcing the news this afternoon, Waterford Minister for State Mary Bulter said that it is a big project for the South East.
“I am delighted to confirm that my Department has issued approval for a new Ophthalmology Theatre in the shelled-out area on Level 2 at UHW.
“This important project has been included in the Health Service’s 2021 Capital Programme and has been granted a Capital Allocation in 2021.
“The approved capital budget for the theatre is €1.64 million. This will fund all the capital costs associated with the project including, construction costs, design fees, equipment costs and other costs associated with the development,” stated Butler.
The Waterford Minister also spoke to the significance of this news for older people in Waterford.
“As Minister for Older People, I am acutely aware of the importance of ophthalmology facilities and services to our older people and how significantly the quality of life for an elderly person can improve due to cataract and other important procedures.
“During the previous Dáil, as Spokesperson for Older People in opposition, I raised the issue of cataract waiting lists consistently. I know how vital such a procedure is to an older person in enhancing their everyday life, so I am delighted to now be in the position of Minister for State with this responsibility and to welcome the progress this vital Ophthalmology facility will make in tackling high waiting lists,” concluded Butler.
