Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 December 2020
517. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Health the process that was involved in the considerations that were made in order to arrive at the decision to repurpose St. Brigid’s District Hospital, Carrick-on-Suir, County Tipperary; and if his attention has been drawn to the way that this impacts on the ability of sick family members to remain close to their families or in the community. [44180/20]
View answer518. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Health his views on the importance of persons receiving convalescent or palliative care to remain close to their families; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44181/20]
View answer519. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Health if the two facilities that are to act as alternatives for persons that would otherwise receive convalescent or palliative care at St. Brigid’s, Carrick-on-Suir, County Tipperary have been identified; if so, if he will provide details of same; if the facilities will be run by private operators; and the projected cost of using same. [44182/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 517, 518 and 519 together.
This Government is committed to the development of improved community and home-based services, shifting care to home and offering greater choice for older people. Our ideal health service is one where people can get the health services they need, with the majority of care delivered in the community and not in acute hospitals.
The HSE took the decision to repurpose St. Brigid’s Hospital in light of current infection prevention and control best practice and in the context of the layout of the St Brigid’s premises. The Department has been advised by the HSE that people in the Carrick-on-Suir area who require convalescent, respite and or palliative care services are being fully supported in alternative settings in the South Tipperary area.
I have asked the HSE to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the operational matters raised.
