Plans are in motion for the provincial government to conduct an assessment of St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital in St. John’s.

Government has issued an RFP to engage a team of consultants to do a comprehensive review of the hospital, which they say will be a “key step” in planning for future healthcare infrastructure.

The work will examine the condition of the facility and the potential for expansion.

The assessment will identify required upgrades, estimate potential costs, and explore the options for future expansion.

Earlier this year, the former Liberal government’s plans for a total replacement of St. Clare’s were axed by the PCs due to the exorbitant costs involved.