Mayo Fine Gael TD Michelle Mulherin has welcomed the announcement that the public tender process for the provision of a two-bed Hospice suite, and the upgrading of the female ward facilities, at Ballina District Hospital has completed with the final legal details being worked out for the appointment of a contractor imminent
The new facilities are part of a substantial investment in Ballina Hospital in a collaborative venture involving the HSE and Mayo Roscommon Hospice, Mulherin said: “The project was first mooted in summer 2012 and I am delighted that the project has advanced to this point such that it would be my hope that we see construction commence early in the New Year.”
Deputy Mulherin said the hospice suite is being provided by the HSE with the support of the Mayo Roscommon Hospice. The suite will provide enhanced care for the terminally ill and offer suitable facilities to the patients for family and friends.
The construction work will also involve upgrading the female ward facilities at the hospital which will include fire improvements, better natural light, and an increase in wc and shower facilities.
Deputy Mulherin said: “The development of the hospice suite at Ballina Hospital will allow the facilities to be greatly enhanced to allow the passing of an individual patient with dignity and respect — and at the same time properly accommodate family and friends at a most difficult and sad juncture in life. I want to compliment the efforts of local HSE management and Mayo Roscommon Hospice under CEO Cynthia Clampett for this excellent collaborative initiative, and the management and staff at St Joseph's Hospital for the wonderful care which is provided to patients and is appreciated very much in the locality which support is epitomised by the local volunteers in the Friends of St Joseph's.”
