Ballina health facility to open by 'end of the summer'

The new Ballina Minor Injuries Unit is expected to be operational within a matter of months, according to Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary.

In a statement issued to the Western People, Minister Calleary said the completion date for the project had been fast-tracked due to a change in the plans.

“While the initial proposal for the unit consisted of minor redecoration works to the existing health centre on the Ballina District Hospital site, thus providing an interim facility, it was planned a permanent solution would follow this, involving more extensive works, including the construction of an extension to accommodate the Injuries Unit. A review of the existing health centre concluded that work required to provide the original interim solution, meeting infection prevention and control and clinical standards, would have been extensive. As a result, the delivery plan was revised and a permanent fully operational Injuries Unit will now be provided within a shorter timeline and with a much lower capital investment, when compared to the original plan for a new build permanent solution."

Minister Calleary said the main contractor had been appointed and works have commenced on site. He expects the new facility to be operational "by the end of the summer".

"The final phase works will be complete by the end of 2026, at which point the building will be handed over to the service allowing the full clinical schedule of accommodation.

“From a staffing perspective, I have also been assured that recruitment for all posts has progressed. Start dates for these positions will be on a phased basis, aligned with the planned opening schedule. Many of these positions will commence in July to ensure that clinical pathways and policies are fully established, and that all required training is completed in preparation for the safe opening of the unit.

“When operational, the Ballina Minor Injuries Unit will be a very significant addition to health services in Ballina, North Mayo and indeed the county, helping to alleviate pressure on the Emergency Department of Mayo University Hospital, while simultaneously bringing highly skilled jobs into Ballina. It will be a seven-day-a-week service and a very significant investment into the town. 

"I once again want to acknowledge the efforts of my ex-colleague, former Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, who worked alongside me in securing this development for Ballina, current Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeil for her continued support and the HSE locally for their diligence in getting the project off the ground,” he said.