A new 120-bed building is to go ahead at the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) in Dublin, it has been confirmed.

The hospital had recently secured planning permission for a120-bed facility that would replace the current ward accommodation, but a shortfall in funding meant building work could not proceed.

However, the Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar, has confirmed that a further €15 million has been allocated to allow the new building to proceed.

The NRH provides specialist rehabilitation services to patients who have acquired a physical or cognitive disability as a result of an accident, injury or illness. It is the only hospital of its type in the country.

Welcoming the news, Labour Party TD, Eamon Gilmore, described the NRH as ‘one of Ireland's most important health facilities'. Meanwhile Fine Gael TD, Mary Mitchell O'Connor commented that this development ‘has been badly needed for a long time by both patients and staff'.

"This new development will be purpose built to accommodate the needs of patients requiring complex specialist rehabilitation services. The facility will include integrated therapy spaces, hydrotherapy and sports facilities. This is great news for the patients and staff," she said.