Paschal Donohoe and Michael McGrath defend the overspend at the National Children's Hospital

The transcript discusses the National Children's Hospital project, highlighting its increased costs and the state's efforts to manage these costs effectively. It emphasizes the project's benefits, such as providing care for 4000 children, and the challenges faced, including cost transparency. The text outlines strategies for managing costs in large public projects and lessons learned for future endeavors. It also details government oversight and assurance processes to ensure project completion while minimizing costs.

What is the primary reason for the increased cost of the National Children's Hospital project?

• Changes in project scope

• Unexpected inflation

• Initial underestimation of costs

• Delays in project approval

How is the state ensuring value for taxpayers in the National Children's Hospital project?

• By halting the project temporarily

• By reducing the project scope

• By implementing cost-saving technologies

• By taking every possible effort through the board

What approach is being taken to manage costs in large projects like the National Children's Hospital?

• Publishing a range of costs and outlining risks

• Reducing project timelines

• Increasing project budgets

• Hiring more contractors

What new measures have been introduced to oversee major capital projects?

• Hiring international consultants

• More frequent project meetings

• New external assurance process and advisory group

• Increased funding

Why did the government decide against retendering the National Children's Hospital project?

• To avoid further delays and increased costs

• To focus on other projects

• To maintain the original project design

• To comply with international standards