Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am not familiar with the setting but I take on board the Deputy's concerns and compassion. Change is very difficult for anybody. It is even more difficult for an older person. Moving from an environment where they live can be very stressful.

I was given a response to the Topical Issue matter and had to read it. However, I will take on board some of the issues the Deputy raised, particularly why, if the service is to remain, the patients are not allowed to remain. I cannot answer that because it is a medical decision. Improving all aspects of policy and services in mental health is a priority under the HSE plan for 2019. This relates to all areas nationally, including Roscommon. The Minister of State, Deputy Jim Daly, encourages public representatives and the media to take responsible approaches when commenting on the HSE decision to transfer patients currently residing at the Rosalie unit. Roscommon has more appropriate health facilities to better meet their health needs and care. The Rosalie unit will not close as has been reported. However, it is highly likely that the psychiatric service currently provided at the centre will cease in due course and a new service will be provided to best cater for the health and care needs of the local community based on demographic evidence. The Minister of State, Deputy Jim Daly, will continue to liaise with the HSE to monitor all aspects of the mental health service care, including health services in Roscommon. I assure the Deputy I will bring a very clear message back to the Minister of State and I apologise again that he could not be here.

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