HSE to occupy east Mayo healthcare centre before end of 2025
THE HSE expects that it will occupy the new primary health care centre in Ballyhaunis before the end of 2025.
When operational, the centre will have 18 staff.
Building of the centre has been at a standstill but the developer has indicated they are willing to proceed in accordance with the original signed agreement for lease and will adhere to the latest required HSE timelines.
Work is due to recommence on the site this September.
Local Councillor Alma Gallagher posed a number of questions about the facility at a Health Forum West meeting this week.
Councillor Gallagher sought an update on the progress of Ballyhaunis Primary Health Care Centre that has recently been confirmed to recommence in September 2024. 'What date is the developer due to commence work on site and has a schedule of works been submitted to the HSE?' she asked in a written question.
In a written reply, Joe Hoare, assistant national director, HSE Capital & Estates, said a detailed programme for commencement through to completion is awaited and is expected to be submitted in the coming weeks.
Mr. Hoare also stated that the developer has formally advised that they are willing to proceed in accordance with the original signed agreement for lease and that they will adhere to the latest required HSE timelines. The HSE is not in a position to re-negotiate the commercial terms and the developer has acknowledged this.
Councillor Gallagher also queried the date the HSE is scheduled to occupy the building on.
She was informed: 'The HSE cannot confirm this date at present. It is understood that once work on site recommences the facility would be completed with 10 months. A minimum allowance of two further months would be required for the HSE to equip the building following agreement of practical completion. Therefore it is expected the HSE might occupy the building in late Q3 / Q4 2025.'
In response to her query about the services to be delivered from Ballyhaunis Primary Health Care Centre and the number of staff working in the building, she was told a range of services will be delivered, including GP services, public health nursing, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, dental, immunisation, child and family psychology, dietetics, podiatry, home support and visiting integrated care services.
Approximately 18 staff will be based in the centre.