Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 May 2006
92 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the plan to relocate patients from unit three of James Connolly Memorial Hospital to an alternative facility within the hospital complex as promised; and the timescale for same. [17753/06]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of the overall development of Connolly Hospital, an enhanced service for Psychiatry of Old Age patients will be provided at an upgraded facility within the campus. It is anticipated that the development will be completed in mid 2007. Patients from Unit 3 will be accommodated in up-graded Unit 5 within the campus during 2007.
I am informed by the Health Service Executive that pending the re-development of Unit 5 it may be necessary on an interim basis to re-locate the current unit. The hospital is currently engaged with the relevant stakeholders in developing a range of options taking account of the complex needs of the patients and the need for continuity in care. A process of consultation with the families is also underway.
