New Kilkenny facility 'will be a lifeline' and 'gamechanger for the region'

Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere expressed his eager anticipation for the opening of the new community nursing unit in Thomastown that is being completed at the moment.

"It will be a purpose-built facility to support the older population of south and central Kilkenny," he said.

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"It will support discharges from St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny and University Hospital in Waterford. It will be a lifeline for many and a gamechanger for the region."

Deputy Cleere subsequently asked when the facility in Thomastown will be fully completed and operational.

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"I am aware workforce planning is progressing across all staff disciplines to ensure the required competence and skill mix of staff is in place to facilitate the operational schedule," he said.

"But there are vacancies in speech and language therapists in Thomastown that have not been filled for the past two years, so much so that it is on its brochure that it currently has vacancies in speech and language therapy.

"Obviously, that cannot continue. I am looking for assurances from the Minister that this will be looked into as a matter of urgency."

Responding, Deputy Paschal Donohoe thanked Deputy Cleere for raising the matter.

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"He is correct, unfortunately, to say that there has been a delay with regard to the recruitment of speech and language therapists," Deputy Donohoe said.

"The post has been advertised on two different occasions and it has not been possible to get the therapist needed by the community. A campaign is under way for the post.

"The HSE will continue to focus on how that role can be filled. I agree with the Deputy that is really important that it happens."

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