Concerns about the future of Belmullet Community Hospital were again expressed at a meeting of the Hospital Action Group on Monday evening. Spokesperson for the group, Councillor Rose Conway-Walsh said: “Although the hospital is now operating at an increased level of activity, we are still concerned that the full capacity of the hospital is not being fully utilised.”
According to the group all 40 beds need to be up and running but this cannot happen until the moratorium on recruitment is lifted. The engagement of temporary staff has not been sanctioned.
“We have been told by the HSE that they are committed to the future of district hospitals. Now we need to see that they mean it by committing the necessary resources and facilitating the engagement of staff,” said Cllr Conway-Walsh.
The action group has complimented the staff and management of Belmullet Hospital for their flexible and committed approach to ensuring that patients receive an excellent quality of care.
“Patients from Erris whose health needs can be met in a district hospital should be transferred to Belmullet Hospital so they can be near their families and friends. Families who need respite care for their relatives should continue to discuss their needs with their healthcare professional,” advised Cllr Conway-Walsh.
