Sinn Féin Councillor Dakota Nic Mheanman has claimed respite care at St Joseph’s Community Hospital in Stranorlar has ceased ‘with immediate effect.’
She said she has been informed the service was removed following a HIQA inspection last Friday.
“I’ve been informed that all respite facilities at St. Josephs’ Hospital have been removed with immediate effect after a HIQA inspection on Friday,” Cllr NicMheanman said.
She added she has made enquiries and has asked the HSE to provide clarification as soon as possible.
“If it is a case that the HIQA inspection is the cause of the closure, then why are the HSE taking such drastic actions when respite care is in such demand? What issues did HIQA have?
“These questions must be answered immediately.”
Cllr NicMheanman said she can’t imagine the stress this will cause families affected, especially at this time of year.
“I pledged in my election campaign to protect and help develop healthcare services locally,” she continued.
“And I’ve been worried about the future of important facilities, such as respite care, at St Joseph’s for a long time and this news has significantly added to my concerns about the future of the Hospital. We need clarity from the HSE as there is a drip feed of information and I’m conscious that we need facts – this is important so we can act appropriately and plan a way of protecting these services for the community.”
Donegal Daily has also contacted the HSE for a response.
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