Millstreet hospital ‘finally’ opens new wing

A Cork TD has welcomed news that a “long-overdue” inspection has been completed on a newly completed extension at a community hospital in the county.

Fianna Fáil TD Aindrias Moynihan recently received official confirmation that the long-awaited Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) inspection for the new extension at Millstreet Community Hospital took place on 10 March.

The inspection is understood to be a critical step in resolving months of delays that have prevented the hospital’s residents from moving into the newly completed extension.

Welcoming the news, Deputy Moynihan said he was delighted that the inspection had finally been completed, as it not only allows residents to occupy the new extension, but also allows for the refurbishment of older parts of the hospital.

“This is an issue I have consistently raised with the HSE, and I welcome the progress,” said Deputy Moynihan. “While the next steps depend on the outcome of this inspection, I am hopeful that this milestone will finally bring an end to months of frustrating delays,” he added.

Describing the delay in getting the inspection over the line as “incredibly frustrating for residents, their families and staff”, Deputy Moynihan said he now looks forward to the commencement of the next phase of the project - the refurbishment of the older section of the hospital.

He said: “At that point, residents will transfer from their current accommodation in the existing hospital into the new extension.”

The new facility will provide 11 single bedrooms, each with en suite shower, toilet, and handwashing facilities, as well as communal spaces including a separate dining room and sitting room. The aim is to will allow residents to move away from the open ward model to a more private and comfortable living environment, significantly improving their quality of life.

“It is essential that the registration process proceeds without further delay so that residents can finally move into these state-of-the-art facilities,” said Deputy Moynihan.

“They and their families have waited long enough. I will continue to liaise with the HSE to ensure the extension opens as quickly as possible, and I will keep residents, families, and constituents informed of any further developments,” he concluded.