Local TD Denis Naughten has been informed that the HSE is to submit planning permission for the new long stay facility at the Sacred Heart Hospital next month.

In a response to Deputy Naughten the HSE stated that planning notices are now being issued with formal planning permission to be sought from Roscommon County Council next month.

“In Government, I secured a commitment that these works would commence in 2021 but we are now only seeing the planning application being submitted,” stated Denis Naughten. “It is imperative that the planning and tendering process is completed without delay and that the project is progressed to construction as soon as possible .

“This facility provides a vital long stay service to older people, particularly those who have complex care needs, and any reduction in bed numbers would directly impact on our older people. It also provides one of the best rehabilitation services of its kind in Ireland or the UK and with our growing older population investment in a modern Sacred Heart Hospital is key to the future of health care locally.”

ENDS.

Dáil reply attached.Construction 50 bed unit at Sacred Heart Hospital Roscommon