Plans for State's first day surgery announced

Plans for Ireland's first purpose-built day surgery were announced today in Dublin.

The Merrion Day Surgery Centre aims to provide minor operations for up to 10,000 patients each year.

The organisers say new developments in surgical procedures to be used at the centre will allow the patients to go home that evening, avoiding the need for lengthy stays for recuperation in hospital.

The centre will be operated by a group of consultants, who say their plan is to provide a safe, speedy service for patients that will create the minimum of disruption to their work and personal lives.

The centre, on Merrion Road in Dublin 4, is scheduled to open early next year.