The development of a new specialist palliative care inpatient unit for the Midlands has been unlocked with €20 million funding.

Capital investment was announced to support the project, which will see a new 20-bed unit developed on the site of Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore.

Once complete, the hospice will provide essential access to specialist palliative care inpatient services for patients and their families across the Midlands.

Announcing the funding, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: "I'm delighted to announce this significant milestone for palliative care in the Midlands.

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"Our Programme for Government commits to developing a hospice providing essential access to specialist palliative inpatient care for people with life limiting illnesses, and their families.

"I'm aware of the enormous work and commitment that has been provided by voluntary hospice groups and colleagues in the HSE, who have worked tirelessly with Minister Stephen Donnelly to progress this much needed service over the past 15 years, and the funding contributed to date.

"So, it is hugely welcome that €20m of additional capital funding will further the development of this hospice in the next few years."

The Midlands Hospice development, expected to be completed by the end of 2025, will make Tullamore a hub for the provision of specialist palliative care services across the Midlands, including day care, outpatient, inpatient and community services.