Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the next stage in the development of the Galway Surgical Hub at Merlin Park Hospital, with planning permission due to be sought for a small extension that will allow the remaining operating theatres to be completed.

Construction of the first two operating theatres at the Galway Surgical Hub is now at an advanced stage and remains on schedule for completion later this year. Following clinical commissioning, the theatres are expected to begin treating patients from November 2026.

The HSE has also received approval to fit out the remaining two shell-and-core theatres as part of the original development. These are expected to open in July 2027.

A planning application is being lodged with Galway City Council for a modest extension to the building to ensure the additional theatres meet all current clinical requirements.

The HSE has confirmed that this work will have no impact on the completion or opening of the first two theatres, with patients still expected to begin accessing services this November.

When fully operational, the Galway Surgical Hub will provide four operating theatres and two minor operating procedure rooms, significantly increasing surgical capacity in the region and helping to reduce waiting times.

Welcoming the progress, Minister Canney said: “This is another important milestone for the Galway Surgical Hub at Merlin Park and, most importantly, for patients waiting for procedures. It is very positive to see the first two theatres progressing on schedule and due to begin treating patients this November.

“The small extension being proposed is simply to meet clinical requirements and will not delay the opening of the first phase.

“Once fully operational, the hub will make a real difference by increasing the number of procedures that can be carried out locally, improving access to planned care for people across Galway and the wider west and northwest region.”