The HSE has confirmed that a potential site for a new 100-bed community hospital to replace St Joseph’s in Ennis has been identified.
But due to the commercially sensitive nature of the acquisition process, the health service won’t be revealing details on the location of the 25 million euro development until the process is concluded.
Last September the green light was given for a new 25 million euro development to replace St Joseph’s Hospital in Ennis to deal with ongoing structural issues at the Lifford facility.
The HSE’s National Capital & Priority Steering Group had previously decided to construct a 50 bed replacement block on the existing site to address the issues, but this option posed logistical issues.
The HSE has since been focusing on site options for a new building at a greenfield site in Ennis, which will provide 100 beds for the care of the elderly, comprising 75 long-stay and 25 short stay beds.
The HSE has confirmed that a site has been identified, but it’s staying tight-lipped on it’s location.
HSE Midwest says it expects the acquisition process to be completed early next year, but it’s working towards shortening that timeframe.
Community Healthcare Chief Officer, Bernard Gloster says they remain focused on the issue.
The new facility is expected to be opened by 2021.
