Cabinet has signed off on plans for the new National Maternity Hospital.
Ministers approved the governance deal at their meeting this morning which will see the hospital relocated from Holles St to the campus of St Vincent's University Hospital.
The government faced concerns about the phrase 'clinically appropriate' as set out in the legal documents.
Speaking before that Cabinet meeting, Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said it's to protect women's healthcare.
"Over the years it's women's health care that has been forced out and put under pressure by other services.
"I kept hearing as Minister for Health that gynaecology sessions in operating theatres are the first ones to go when other service is wanted.
"I don't think that's acceptable."
