Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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A central objective of the Programme for Government is to deliver increased levels of integrated health care with service delivery reoriented towards general practice, primary care and community-based services.

Primary Care Centres (PCCs) play an essential role in the delivery of that objective. These modern, purpose-designed buildings provide a single location for a primary care team to work from and play a key role in the delivery of a reformed health service. Minister Donnelly is happy to report that significant progress has been made in the delivery of these centres nationally, with 167 opened to date, and a further 14 currently in construction.

In County Clare specifically, there has been the recent addition of a new Primary Care Centre on Station Road in Ennis. This centre became operational in Q4 2022. Construction of an additional fourth floor is to commence in late 2023.

The Primary Care Centre in Kilrush also saw extensive renovations with existing accommodation upgraded in 2022.

Furthermore, progress is being made on the development of Primary Care Centres in Sixmilebridge, Ennistymon and Tulla Road, Ennis. These centres are at earlier stages of the planning and development process.

In addition to these developments, the HSE has confirmed that refurbishment works are planned for Ennis Health Centre (Bindon Street) and submissions have been made for a proposed two-storey extension to Scariff Health Centre.

The provision of these new Primary Care Centres and upgraded facilities will be a welcome addition to the people of County Clare and Minister Donnelly wishes to assure the Deputy that this Government remains committed to the provision of Primary Care Centres in County Clare, Community Healthcare Mid-West and throughout the country.