Conway-Walsh welcomes HSE decision to develop new hospital facility and return healthcare capacity to Belmullet

Mayo Sinn Féin TD, Rose Conway-Walsh, has welcomed reports that the HSE will begin the planning phase for a new hospital in Belmullet as well as deliver on the long-awaited modular unit.

Conway-Walsh said: "Belmullet needs a new hospital. I sincerely welcome the change of approach from the HSE and government on this issue and will work with them to ensure that this project progresses as quickly as possible. The people of Erris have seen the removal of beds from Belmullet Community Hospital over the years and the steady removal of healthcare services from the area.

"I have long campaigned for Belmullet Hospital to be adequately supported to deliver the healthcare people desperately need here in their community. It seems from today’s reports that the HSE now recognise both the need and the potential in the local area.

"Reports also seem to indicate movement on the issue of allocating capital funding for the long-awaited modular unit and refurbishment. This modular unit will restore the bed capacity to pre-COVID levels. I have written to the HSE seeking greater clarity on the time-frame for both the delivery of the long-awaited modular unit and the development of a project brief for a new facility.

"Together with Sinn Féin local election candidate Rosaleen Lally, I will ensure this development progresses as quickly as possible. The beds in Belmullet Hospital should never have been closed."