Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue. I accept that public residential care units such as that in Abbeyleix hospital are an essential part of healthcare infrastructure. Demand for services is increasing as the population ages. The Deputy raised questions about technical expertise in the Department, the capacity of the unit and a target of 45 residents and more localised care services in the context of people receiving care in County Tipperary. He also mentioned the plan and a tender and timelines for them. I give a commitment that I will go back to the Minister and revert to the Deputy with the answers to these questions.

There is a need to develop hospital avoidance and early discharge facilities, particularly for the increasing elderly population. That is why the HSE is focused on developing a range of community services to best serve the people of Abbeyleix and surrounding areas. Such services can play a significant role in supporting older adults who are discharged from hospital with ongoing, non-acute care needs and preventing admission to hospital. I will get back to the Deputy when I contact the Minister about the issues he raised.

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