HSE criticised at recent Kildare County Council meeting

The entrance to St Vincent's Hospital in Athy. Photograph credit: Google Maps Street View

placeholder image — The entrance to St Vincent's Hospital in Athy. Photograph credit: Google Maps Street View

The comments were made in relation to a motion which concerned St Vincent's Hospital in Athy

The Health Service Executive (HSE) was criticised by councillors at a recent Kildare County Council (KCC) meeting.

The criticism was levelled at the government organisation during the Athy Municipal District meeting, which was held on Monday, June 16 last.

The matter came about when Fianna Fáil Cllr Brian Dooley motioned for KCC to provide "a report on the progress for the takeover of the independent senior living units in McAuley Court, St Vincent's Hospital, Athy".

His motion was supported by Labour Party Cllr Mark Leigh.

Speaking further about his motion, Cllr Dooley (who appeared at the meeting by virtual means) said that the situation had "been held up by legalities for far too long", while Cllr Leigh remarked that it was "so frustrating" to deal with the HSE in relation to this matter.

Cllr Brian Dooley. Photograph credit: fiannafail.ie

In addition, the Mayor of the MD, Labour Party Cllr Aoife Breslin, remarked: "This never seemed to be a priority for the HSE."

In response to Cllr Dooley's motion, KCC said via its report at the meeting: "Discussions regarding the transfer of McCauley Court, St Vincent’s Hospital, Athy are at an advanced stage, with Draft Heads of Terms of Agreement substantially agreed."

KCC also said: "Once the terms are fully agreed, it is expected the transfer process will move onto the legal stage."

Mayor Breslin welcomed this response, and called it "a good news story for Athy".

The HSE was asked for comment on the various critical statements made by the different councillors, but did not respond in time for publication.