Sir, – The ongoing saga of the National Children’s Hospital has become one of the most shameful examples of public project mismanagement in the history of the State.What was promised as a world-class facility for Ireland’s children has instead become synonymous with spiralling costs, missed deadlines and a seemingly endless succession of explanations and excuses. I am writing this letter from Crumlin Hospital, where the conditions are quite frankly appalling. It only serves to highlight the critical need to get this project over the line and get the doors open. Thankfully, my stay will be short, but for some children and their families, they will spend their darkest days in this overcrowded and dated building. Most distressing of all is that, while the new hospital remains unfinished, the children of Ireland continue to be treated in facilities that are wholly inadequate for a modern, prosperous European nation. At a time when Ireland boasts strong economic growth, budget surpluses and a reputation as one of the wealthiest countries in Europe, it is deeply troubling that our current infrastructure is reminiscent of what one might expect in a developing country. The contrast between our national prosperity and the conditions endured by our sick and vulnerable children, as well as their families, is stark and difficult to justify.The children of Ireland deserve better. Their tired, worried parents deserve better. The wonderful doctors, nurses, care assistants and healthcare professionals who work tirelessly in these outdated facilities deserve better. The true measure of public service is not simply delivering projects, but delivering them competently, responsibly and in the public interest. On that measure, those charged with overseeing this project have so much to answer for. – Yours, etc,GINA CASSIDY, Foxrock,Dublin 18.