NO DECISION ON WELFARE HOME HSE
The HSE has confirmed to The Avondhu that no decision has been taken in connection with the feared closure of the Fermoy welfare home, writes Brian Moore.
A spokesperson for the HSE said, “The HSE are working to complete the refurbishment of Fermoy Community Hospital and 10 patients will be returning from St Francis Home to the community hospital by the end of July 2011.
"A number of options about the future provision of residential care in the Fermoy area are being examined and the HSE can confirm that no decision has been taken in relation to St. Francis Home.”
Earlier, at a meeting of the Northern Area committee this week, councillors called on the Minister for Health, Dr James Reilly to ensure that the welfare home remains open and that the residents are given priority.
“The HSE needs to clarify the situation urgently. The welfare of the patients and staff at the home must be put at the top of the list when considering any move to close such an important facility in Fermoy,” Cllr Noel McCarthy told The Avondhu.
Built back in the 1970s, the welfare home was designed to accommodate up to 40 patients. At the AGM of Fermoy Town Council on Tuesday, the councillors rowed in behind their colleagues at the Northern committee and will also be writing to the minister.
“I would like to see a representative from the HSE attend the next meeting of Fermoy Town Council to explain what is to happen to the welfare home and, while we as a council will write to the minister, I think we must also send a letter to the HSE seeking clarification as to the status of the Fermoy Welfare Home,” Mayor Michael Hanley said.
Published:
Thursday 23rd June 6:57pm
