Suggestions that planning delays could be too much of an obstacle for a new MidWest hospital have been rubbished by a West Clare Councillor.

It follows indications that HIQA is prioritising either the expansion of University Hospital Limerick or extension of its campus instead.

In the regulator's landmark review of emergency capacity in the MidWest, it highlighted that a project feasibility risk assessment would have to be carried out to see if building a new facility elsewhere is possible.

Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney believes its the only viable solution.