Senator Aisling Dolan - Strong Voice, New Vision.
Senator Aisling Dolan called for commitment from Dept of Health and Minister Anne Rabitte for investment in 2021 in Portiuncula Hospital. Minister Anne Rabitte as a Minister from East Galway has a special affinity for the hospital and gave strong updates and commitment to accelerate funding.
1.Senator Dolan requested commitment to Stage 2 construction in 2021 on the 50 single bed ward block in the HSE Capital Plan
Minister Rabitte confirmed Enabling Works due for completion end of May 2021. Tenders will start end of 2020 with construction due to start after Enabling Works mid - 2021
2. Senator Dolan called for urgent allocation of funds for the repurposing of the Outpatients Dept to allow for addition of single en-suite rooms. A modular unit has been set up in Portiuncula grounds to manage Outpatients (14 assessment rooms) however now we need urgent funds to develop the additional 13 single rooms within the hospital.
Minister Rabitte confirmed that this project is at feasibility stage with a timeline of March 2021 however the Minister committed to requesting an acceleration to have this project delivered as soon as possible.
3. Senator Dolan requested consideration of a replacement CT scanner in the HSE Equipment Budget of 2021. Current piece is not fully operational – issues throughout the year. Replacemtn could ensure continuation of service and scans/ diagnosis to reduce waiting lists.
Minister Rabitte confirmed that the Dept will consider risk categorisation based on age, dependability and service history of the piece of equipment.
