Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 March 2024
338. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Health to report on the reports of deaths in Cherry Orchard hospital; if he will initiate a full investigation into the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11200/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn May 2023, a HIQA inspection identified concerns in relation to the flooring in both the Sycamore and Willow Units at Cherry Orchard Hospital. These presented a significant potential health and safety risk. A subsequent HSE review indicated that the flooring has underlying structural issues which require immediate remedial work.
The HSE has decided to close both Units and relocate the residents to Clondalkin Lodge in the first instance, which is a private nursing home, on a temporary basis while the necessary structural works are completed. However a resident and their families are free to choose a nursing home that is suitable to their needs. It is expected that the works will take a minimum of 1 year to complete.
The residents of Cherry Orchard Hospital are being moved to more suitable accommodation on a phased basis. The phased move will have due regard to their needs, current proximity to each other and relationships within the unit.
The safety and wellbeing of residents and staff is the primary concern. All appropriate options were considered before committing to this move.
The HSE is working in consultation with residents, their families and staff while giving full consideration to health and safety concerns and regulatory compliance.
There is on-going monitoring and risk assessment to ensure that there is no immediate hazard to residents.
The HSE has reassured me that each care plan for this temporary move will include therapeutic input required and a review of charges to ensure that no one experiences adverse financial exposure. All additional charges will be covered by the HSE for the duration of the works.
There will be a medical social worker and an Assisted Decision Making lead available on site for the duration of this move. In addition, all residents have on site details for an independent advocate service should they wish to contact them.
I have been advised that there is no impact on other structures on the campus as the issues relate solely to the two modular buildings Willow and Sycamore units.
As of 27 February, 40 Residents are currently transferred from Cherry Orchard Campus and 22 residents currently remain on-site.
The HSE have been closely monitoring the situation since transfers began last November. In the absence of sufficient data to indicate the move to alternative accommodation has lead to an earlier than expected loss of life, there is no immediate need to initiate an investigation into this matter. This does not mean that an investigation can be fully ruled out at any future time.
Nevertheless, as the specific query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
