The timeline for Waterford's new state-of-the-art centre for children with complex needs has been criticised.
The Minister for Health has confirmed the facility, which is expected to cost up to fifteen million euro, will be in the capital plan for this year.
The new early intervention and respite centre will be constructed on the grounds of St Otteran's Hospital on John's Hill in the city, but not before 2025 under current plans.
Raising the matter in the Seanad this morning, Waterford senator John Cummins said the existing facilities were not 'fit for purpose' and the development needed to happen sooner:
"While the commitment and dedication of staff that work in the existing Sacred Heart Centre cannot be faulted, the facility is simply no longer fit for purpose. It was built over 44 years ago and has numerous disadvantages.
"The HSE themselves have identified that: Does not conform to Tusla’s requirements; A lack of ceiling track hoisting and appropriate storage facilities which are Health & Safety Risks; Poor ventilation contrary to building regulations; It’s poorly lit with a lack of natural light; Narrow corridors not complying with current standards; It has grossly inadequate parking and set down spaces with no room for expansion; Inadequate space or quiet areas to support children with sensory processing disorders; And there is a requirement to hire external venues when offering training to parents and staff".
"Under the current schedule, the designs won’t go to tender until late 2022 with a completion date of 2025. The Fine Gael Senator said it "is just not good enough":
"I am sure you’ll agree Minister that these children and their families and the staff have waited long enough and I believe this project must be fast-tracked, I see no reason why we couldn’t have this project go out to tender and commence next year."
Responding Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler said she agreed that the children needed better facilities, as soon as possible and she would make representations to her colleague Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly:
"I don't believe the service users and staff can wait until 2025 for completion". Minister Butler said she had seen firsthand the issues with the building and that the children had waited long enough. She added that she looked forward to working with Senator Cummins on the issue.
#Seanad Commencement Matter 6 - Senator John Cummins - Capital build plans for an early Intervention and Respite Care Centre for children on the grounds of St. Otteran’s Hospital, County Waterford https://t.co/tQua4zpQ2C pic.twitter.com/uIu6y030sI
— Houses of the Oireachtas - Tithe an Oireachtais (@OireachtasNews) February 22, 2021
Listen to the full interaction between Senator Cummins and Minister Butler here:
