Breen Calls For Urgent Intervention At St Joseph’s

Photo © Pat Flynn

An Ennis Councillor is calling on the Health Minister to urgently intervene to improve facilities at St Joseph’s Hospital.

HSE Mid-West has moved to reassure the County Council that it does have a viable future after they raised concerns over a HIQA report last year which found three instances of major non-compliance.

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The unannounced inspection by HIQA at St Joseph’s Hospital on August 18th last year found major non-compliance in three areas.

The Health watchdog’s report, which was published last Friday noted there was one shower between 24 patients and urinals hanging over beds, amongst other issues and that the centre appeared institutionalised and hospital-like.

This has led to concerns by local representatives, with some calling for an emergency meeting of the local authority to address the issue.

HSE Mid-West last night issued a letter to each representative in an effort to reassure them that the hospital is viable but Independent Ennis Councillor James Breen says despite this, he remains concerned.

Management at the hospital responded to the report by outlining works that are due to take place.

A 12 million euro fund is earmarked for refurbishments at the Lifford Road care facility between now and 2021.

Last month at Ennis District Court, an agreement was reached between the HSE and HIQA to keep the facility open to new admissions and that the works would continue to take place.

Bernard Gloster is Chief Officer with HSE Mid-West – he says they’re committed to keeping St Joseph’s up and running.

You can see the full report, by clicking here.