Local Minister Denis Naughten has welcomed reassurances provided by the HSE’s Tony Canavan today in relation to the future of the Rosalie Unit in Castlerea, following Minister Naughten’s intervention on the issue.

Minister Naughten had written to Minister Jim Daly stating that both “Government and HSE policy is clear that the Rosalie Unit has a future which is in all likelihood within the Mental Health services”, and had sought reassurances in relation to both the residents of the Rosalie Unit and the future of the unit itself.

The HSE has confirmed today that no decision will be taken in relation to the Rosalie Unit until the clinical assessment process has been completed and reviewed. Mr Canavan also adds: “I can confirm that it is the intention that the Rosalie facility will continue to form part of the service delivery of health care in the Roscommon area, and that if any change of use should arise from its current use, it will be done in consultation with public representatives and relevant stakeholders for the area.”

Commenting on the HSE decision Minister Naughten stated: “I welcome this reassurance from the HSE following my letter to Minister Daly; however this is an issue which should never have been open for discussion in the first place. This will provide reassurance for residents and their families, however we must continue to work with residents, their families and their advocates as well as the local community to plan for the future.”