A completion date of June has been set for the National Children’s Hospital, with plans to welcome its first patients by January 2026.
However, the project continues to face scrutiny over spiralling costs, delays, and persistent construction issues.
Originally budgeted at €987 million, the hospital’s cost has soared to €2.2 billion, making it the most expensive hospital in the world. Construction is five years behind schedule, with this being the first agreed timeline in four years.
Recent Oireachtas committee hearings have highlighted ongoing concerns, including defective ceiling panels discovered during inspections. The contractor, BAM, has committed to rectifying these issues as part of an accelerated effort to meet the June deadline.
Public frustration remains high over the delays and cost overruns, with committee members questioning oversight and accountability in the project’s management.
Despite these challenges, Children’s Health Ireland and BAM insist they are on track to deliver the hospital within the revised timeframe.
The project has become a focal point for debates on how future infrastructure projects can avoid similar pitfalls.
