The historical role that The Grove in Tuam played in the medical life of North Galway was celebrated on Monday when Tánaiste Micheál Martin, TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence opened the Children’s Disability Network Team (CDNT ) & Adult Community Mental Health Services (ACMHT ) facility on the site of the former hospital.
Cllr Donagh Killilea in his capacity as Chair of the Regional Health Forum West informed the opening that the former Grove Hospital was purchased from the Bon Secours Sisters in 2001 for the purpose of establishing a range of facilities to serve Tuam and the surrounding area in a single integrated campus.
He thanked the people of Tuam for being behind them 100% regardless of parties or political views.
“There has always been a one joint force when it came to delivering community health facilities here in Tuam and it is hard to believe that we have had almost €50million spent on a health campus in our small town.”
John Fitzmaurice, Chief Officer, Community Healthcare West said that The Grove brings together the CDNT and the ACMHT, two vital pillars that support those who need it the most.
“In the heart of this community, we recognise the paramount importance of accessible and integrated healthcare. For our CDNT, they offer support and services to children and young people with complex needs. On the other hand, our ACMHT play a pivotal role in the assessment, treatment, and management of those suffering from moderate to severe mental illnesses. In a recovery focused manner,” he said.
Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD, said the opening of this state-of-the-art facility is a really positive moment for healthcare in the West of Ireland.
“The Grove will provide crucial adult mental health and children’s disability services to Tuam and its surrounding areas. I have no doubt that this facility will make a real and necessary change to the lives of some of the most vulnerable in our society.”
Minister Anne Rabbitte stated it was a very positive day for the sector.
“It is up to us now to deliver on the hope and deliver on the promises and commitment we made here today, but I do know with a collective gathering of staff and management, that that will happen.
“Facilities such as The Grove will bring us closer to having not only a fully functioning and effective children’s disability service here in Galway that will meet all the needs of children with disabilities and their families, but a service that we can all, as a community, be very proud of.”
Sara Cuddy representing the Family Forum stated the Family Forum provides an opportunity for families to discuss issues and ideas and share our experiences about children’s disability services.
“The opening of this fabulous, state-of-the-art facility represents HOPE - a promise to our children, their families, and our community. It represents hope that here, in these walls, every child will find the support they need, the care they deserve, and the opportunities they dream of.
Minister Mary Butler said “she has been working closely with Minister Rabbitte over recent years to support the HSE to bring this fine new project to fruition.
“The upgraded facilities and consolidation of services will greatly benefit those who use the services and the staff. The relocation of the Tuam ACMHT to the Grove has enhanced cooperation and better service provision overall.
“It reflects the type of improved multi-disciplinary approach being progressed in Galway and elsewhere under implementation of our mental health policy ‘Sharing the Vision’.”
Speaking at the official opening, a person with lived experience, Imelda O’Dea said it is her belief that the services are now exactly where they should be. Accessible and visible. In the heart of the community.
After the unveiling of two commemorative plaques, the building was blessed by Fr. Pat Farragher, Administrator at Tuam Cathedral.
