Health campaigners in Clare are calling for a shovel ready plan to be developed to expedite the future delivery of an emergency department in this county.
It comes as the local authority is seeking discussions with the next government over potential sites for a new ED in Ennis.
With just over a month to go until HIQA delivers its interim findings of a review to determine if another Emergency Department is needed in the MidWest, Clare County Council has finally weighed in.
A submission compiled by the 28 elected representatives highlights that 40% of homes in this county are located more than a 45 minute drive from the nearest EDs at University Hospital Limerick, Galway University Hospital and Portincula Hospital in Ballinasloe.
It also states that the 71 beds planned for UHL next year are not sufficient to meet existing population demand.
Maghera Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat Hayes says Clare is the only logical choice for a new facility, as patients can’t be forced to rely on services over the county borders.
HIQA’s preliminary report is due in Q1 of next year and its expected to give a strong indication as to whether a new ED will be coming to Ennis or not.
Clare County Council, meanwhile, has confirmed it’s identified a number of suitable greenfield and brownfield sites and is hoping to hold discussions with the incoming Health Minister about them.
Friends of Ennis Hospital PRO and former Kilrush Independent Councillor Deirdre Culligan says its vital a funded shovel ready plan is developed now to ensure a future ED for the county town is up and running as soon as possible and doesn’t become a second Children’s Hospital fiasco.
You can listen to the full interview here:
