Fianna Fáil TD for Mayo Dara Calleary has welcomed investment in community care district hospitals across County Mayo but warned further investment is required to alleviate pressure on Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar.
Working with his colleagues, Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly TD and Minister for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler TD, Deputy Calleary has secured investment at Belmullet District Hospital, Ballina District Hospital, and the commencement of a recruitment process at Swinford District Hospital.
He commented, “The recent Winter Plan and this week’s Budget highlighted the importance of district hospitals. They have an important role to play as we learn to live with COVID-19.
“I welcome confirmation that Belmullet District Hospital will have work done on the Sluice Room, an upgrade of the shower facilities, in addition to an upgrade of the kitchen area in Aras Dheirbhle Community Nursing Unit which is to be carried out before the end of this year. It is important this major capital investment proceed urgently. I have also raised with our Ministers’ the importance that staff are recruited to open the full bed compliment in Belmullet and for admission rights to be given to local GP’s.
“I understand minor improvement works are to be carried out on Ballina District Hospital. I am also pushing for additional staff for the hospital, which will result in more services being provided to the wider area who can attend Ballina District Hospital.
“I welcome the fact a recruitment process is now underway in Swinford District Hospital. Once completed this will see all beds open at the hospital. This recruitment process should proceed and be concluded promptly.
“I will continue to work with Ministers’ Donnelly and Butler to ensure our community care led district hospitals are open and providing as many services to local communities as they can,” concluded Deputy Calleary.
