The HSE has withdrawn step down and respite services from Clifden District Hospital effective today.
It has been reported that patients and families received word last Friday that services were being withdrawn.
A series of meetings have been held over the weekend involving residents of the area and local representatives.
Unprecedented community turnout today in #Clifden #Connemara for a meeting about the future of Clifden District Hospital pic.twitter.com/TGK7dJ0oar
— Connemara Chamber (@conamarachamber) September 25, 2022
Speaking on GalwayBayFM Senator Seán Kyne emphasised the importance of maintaining local public services saying it was known that suggested alternative care centres, Galway University Hospital and Merlin Park, are “under pressure”.
“We need facilities like Clifden District Hospital, we need them to stay open”.
A member of the meeting committee spoke of how for some patients, the closure of services at Clifden District Hospital would mean that visiting a loved one could involve embarking on a five hour round trip as for some, Clifden is already a substantial distance from home.
Please help us Save Clifden District Hospital – Your help is urgently needed. Sign the Petition here https://t.co/UfQFwl0Ob1 via @Change @niallotuathail @Farrell_Mairead @HSELive #Galway #Ireland #HSE @sinnfeinireland @SocDems
— Anna (@AnnaMc_) September 24, 2022
Speaking on MidWestRadio local Councillor Eileen Mannion said “People need to come together to express their concerns and highlight the need for the step down and respite services” she added that the local people should let the HSE know that they support the retention of current care practices at the hospital.
She continued saying “we’re 50 miles from Galway city” adding how it would be impractical for patients and families to make such journeys when a local facility already exists.
“We have facilities here in Clifden that are under utilised so it’s really important that the HSE come up with a plan, working with the local community”, to ensure the continuation of services at the hospital.