Clare’s Councillors say political courage is now needed to deliver a new hospital in this county.
It comes as two separate motions calling for the construction of a model 4 facility are set to go before the local authority today.
The proposals both follow HIQA’s recent review of urgent and emergency care capacity in the MidWest.
While acknowledging the regulator’s recommendations of either expanding UHL or extending the campus to a second site close to Dooradoyle, Clare’s elected representatives are steadfast that only a new hospital in this county will do.
The first motion going before today’s meeting is seeking a new Model 3 or 4 hospital in Ennis specifically, while the second will call for a such a facility to be established in Clare.
Clarecastle Sinn Féin Councillor Tommy Guilfoyle insists building should start as soon as possible.
Both motions will make the case that only a model 4 hospital can sustainably meet the healthcare needs of this county’s growing population.
Maghera Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat Hayes says it’s vital that politicians determine a preferred site now and get it into the next National Development Plan or it may never happen.
Listen to the full interview here
