North Mayo hospital new build at appraisal stage

THE current new build at Ballina District Hospital is at appraisal stage, but the HSE hopes to be able to accommodate a 75-bed unit on the site.

The information was relayed to Councillor John O'Hara at this month's Health Forum West meeting following his query on the matter.

Ann Cosgrove, COO, Saolta University Health Care Group, informed him: “It is proposed to replace both the current St. Augustine’s Community Nursing Unit and the current St. Joseph’s 17 District Hospital accommodation in Ballina with a new 75-bed unit for both residential care and short stay/respite services.

“It is felt that the current district hospital site is potentially capable of accommodating the required new build accommodation although to deliver this option would require some demolition of existing facilities in advance in order to clear an adequate site area to be able do this.

“Further work is required on how best to achieve the service objectives and to firm up on the exact scope of an agreed capital investment solution.

“The project is included for progression in the HSE Capital Plan and is at appraisal stage.”