Stormont Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has unveiled plans to invest £29m in capital over the next three years to improve health and social care services and facilities in the Northern Trust area.

This funding is part of a total planned investment of £175m over the next ten years for health and social care in the Northern Trust area.

Minister McGimpsey said: "I will continue to invest funds where improved health and social care services are needed for the people of the Northern Trust area.

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"Key projects include new Health and Care Centres for the Larne, Carrickfergus and Ballymena areas; redevelopments of facilities at Whiteabbey, Mid Ulster and Antrim Hospitals, and a new mental health in-patient facility for the Trust area."

The Minister added: "I have worked with all the Health Boards and Trusts to identify key priorities for the next ten years. By continuing to invest in our services we are ensuring that we have a first class health and social care service which continues to put patients first."

Meanwhile, in the Republic, a leading children's charity had said State budget cuts will not affect the building of a new National Children's Hospital.

Children in Hospital Ireland last week held a public forum on the development of the new centre which is estimated to cost €800m.

Experts from the UK will also contributed their knowledge.

(PR)