Michael Collins TD: Planning madness puts mothers and babies at risk

Michael Collins TD, Leader of Independent Ireland, has expressed outrage at the reported refusal of a critical care unit for Rotunda Hospital by An Bord Pleanála.

“This is absolute planning madness,” Deputy Collins said.

“We are not talking about luxury apartments or office blocks. We are talking about critical care for mothers and newborn babies. How can any system justify putting procedural obstacles ahead of patient safety?”

Deputy Collins said the decision exposes a planning regime that has become detached from reality.

“Our planning laws are now so convoluted that even life-saving healthcare infrastructure can be stalled or blocked. That is indefensible.”

The Independent Ireland leader called for an immediate review of the decision and urgent reform to fast-track essential hospital developments.

“When it comes to maternity and neonatal care, there can be no excuses and no delays. The safety of mothers and babies must come first — not red tape.”

He added: “If we cannot build critical care capacity in our capital city without obstruction, then the system is fundamentally broken. It is time to fix it.”