Tipperary TD calls on HSE to reconsider its plans to purchase land for community unit

Tipperary Sinn Fein TD Martin Browne has called for the HSE to reconsider its intention to purchase land at Palmers Hill, Cashel, for the development of a Community Nursing Unit, and to consider adapting Our Lady’s instead.

Deputy Browne made the call during a discussion with the Tánaiste, Mícheál Martin.

Teachta Browne said: “Developing a Community Nursing Unit for Cashel has been a long and complicated saga. Then last year, the HSE informed me that alternative site options to St Patrick’s were being considered.

“I convened a public meeting at which another proposal was suggested, such as a parcel of land to the rear of St Patrick’s Hospital or the reconfiguration of Our Lady’s to cater for a CNU.

“The HSE has deemed both options as unsuitable and have continued to consider what appears to be their preference to locate the CNU at Palmers Hill - a parcel of land owned by the HSE.

“Since the Palmers Hill site was first proposed, I have raised the issue of its suitability with the HSE, due to its geographical layout and the issue of access.

“Most recently the HSE has informed me that they are now considering purchasing more land at Palmers Hill.

“I have considerable concerns with this, and I relayed those concerns to the Tánaiste today.

“First of all, from engaging with people locally, I’m aware that the preferred location for the CNU would be in the centre of town. Secondly, I am unconvinced at the suitability of Palmers Hill as a location for it.

“Thirdly, I don’t see why the financial resources that would go into purchasing land at Palmers Hill could not instead be directed towards adapting Our Lady’s for example.”

“Furthermore, I feel that to purchase a greenfield site will result in planning delays, and delays generally to the development of a CNU, meaning the likelihood of any progress before a General Election will become increasingly unlikely, and the relicensing of Our Lady’s will become a regular feature for the foreseeable future, with no CNU.”