Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 18 May 2022

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health

HSE National Service Plan 2022: Discussion

Photo of Frances BlackFrances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses because I cannot imagine what the past few years have been like with everything that has been going on, particularly Covid-19. I thank the HSE for all its hard work as I imagine that period has been quite stressful.

I want to highlight the Owenacurra centre and the correspondence the committee received from the HSE yesterday justifying the decision to close it. It was detailed and provided positive news about the expansion of various HSE services in the area, but unfortunately it did not really address the central matter in the committee's letter. I am concerned that no independent report has concurred with the HSE's decision-making, and experts disagree. That includes our own Deputy Hourigan, who is an architect. Unfortunately, she is unable to be here today but she has outlined achievable plans that would allow the current residents of Owenacurra to stay in their homes. I and others have visited the centre and met the residents and families. I was affected by how passionate the residents and their families feel about this. There is also a concern the HSE's consultation process with the residents and their families has been deficient. I do not think it fits with the emphasis on community building and patient autonomy, dignity and respect that the Sláintecare roll-out was supposed to represent. Is there any possibility the HSE can reconsider the decision?

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.