BREAKING: Funding of almost €6 million for Kilkenny key projects

The confirmation of 12 major health projects for Kilkenny under the HSE’s Capital Plan 2026, with a combined proposed allocation of €5,926,279 for 2026 has been welcomed locally by public representatives.

The projects represent significant investment in acute hospital services, mental health facilities, community care and older persons’ services across the county.

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Leas Ceann Comhairle and Fianna Fáil TD John McGuinness has said that the funding ‘is a strong and positive endorsement of the healthcare needs of Kilkenny’.

“These projects will significantly enhance capacity, improve patient safety, and strengthen community-based services.

"I have consistently engaged with the Minister and the HSE to ensure Kilkenny receives the investment it deserves, and I welcome this clear commitment under the Capital Plan 2026,” said Deputy McGuinness.

At St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny, the Capital Plan includes: a new ward block under the Acute Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion Plan (€112,280), a second CT scanner (€56,140), a new acute Mental Health Unit (€10,000), Phase 4 electrical infrastructure upgrade works ( €30,000), emergency generator replacement (€623,154), ward refurbishment with beds for delivery in 2026 (€3,649,100) and refurbishment and extension of the mortuary (€84,210).

In addition, the Plan provides for: mental health refurbishment of CAMHS accommodation at St. Canice’s Hospital (€673,680) and enhanced community and funding of €14,035 for community and primary care at Newpark, Kilkenny.

There is also €561,400 for the reconfiguration and extension of Freshford Health Centre and €112,280 in funding towards a new Primary Care Centre at Ballyhale and funding for the replacement 95-bed Community Nursing Unit at St. Columba’s Hospital, Thomastown (PPP).

“The scale of investment in St. Luke’s Hospital is particularly significant. The new ward block, additional CT capacity and upgraded infrastructure will directly improve patient flow, diagnostics and resilience. At the same time, strengthening primary care and mental health facilities ensures we continue shifting care closer to home.”

Deputy McGuinness concluded: “These 12 projects demonstrate sustained investment in the health infrastructure of Kilkenny. While work remains to be done to meet future demand, this Capital Plan represents meaningful progress. I will continue to work closely with Government and the HSE to ensure these projects are delivered on time and that further investment continues in the years ahead.”

Deputy Peter Chap Cleere also welcomed the funding.

"This announcement will see the vital progression of key projects across the county and region that will ensure we have robust health infrastructure to meet the demand of our growing population. The continued significant investment in health infrastructure underlines the government’s commitment to improving quality healthcare in a sustainable way," he said.

North Kilkenny county councillor, Pat Fitzpatrick also welcomed the funding describing it as 'an important milestone' for several key health projects across the city and county.