Work on a new £3.4m treatment and assessment unit in Belfast has commenced.

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey was on hand to cut the first sod at the site, which is scheduled to open early next year.

The facility will provide specialist health and social care for children and young people with learning disabilities.

Speaking at the site of the new eight-bedded facility at Broadway near the Royal Victoria Hospital, Mr McGimpsey said: "This new facility, designed in consultation with young people in care, will provide the latest in treatment and care in a modern setting."

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The scheme will replace part of the current children's service at Muckamore Abbey Hospital.

"It will provide specialist treatment and assessment for children and young people with learning disabilities and ultimately help them to better integrate into home and school life," said the Minister.

"This facility is another part of our investment plans in primary and community care. This is a key element of the health component of the Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland which will bring at least £3bn of investment to modernise the infrastructure of health and social care services.

"At the heart of our modernisation programme is the recognition that we will deliver high quality safe services which continue to put patients first," added Mr McGimpsey.

(PR/JM)