Fresh proposals that include options to bring forward the construction of a new maternity unit for Belfast by up to five years have been revealed.

The review is now underway to examine the best clinical use of part of the new Critical Care building in Belfast, which is presently under construction.

One of the options currently under consideration includes locating the new maternity unit in the top three floors of this building.

Other options include locating another priority service in the top floors or continuing with the original plans.

NI Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey, said: "Given the current challenging economic climate facing the Health and Social Care service in Northern Ireland, it is vital that any funds are invested in areas of greatest need.

"The new Critical Care building is a much needed development and I want to assure the public that work will continue to complete it. However, I also want to ensure that we maximise the potential of this new facility.

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"That is why I have asked for an urgent review which will focus on the best use of the top three floors of the building."

The Minister said that while he had always been committed to building the Women’s and Children's hospitals, severe cuts to his capital budget had meant that these projects could not happen as quickly as he would have wanted.

He said: "The need for both these developments is clear to see. That is why I am determined to take any action necessary to progress this vital work.

"This is a good news story as this review provides a real opportunity to achieve at least one of these much needed projects in a much quicker timescale. If this option was viable, the Women's Hospital could be built by 2012/13 – up to five years faster than under the current proposals.

"In addition, this proposal has the potential to save a massive amount of money - as much as £100million."

Belfast Health and Social Care Trust will now take forward the review, which is due to be completed by the autumn.

Minister McGimpsey continued: "I recognise that this review must be progressed quickly in order to avoid any unnecessary expenditure. I will also be asking senior clinicians in the Trust to play an important role in advising on the options.

"Before any decision is made, a great deal of work will need to be done to assess the greatest need and any cost implications."

(NS/BMcC)