HSE gives new timeline for long-awaited healthcare centre in Mayo
Cllr Alma Gallagher outside the unfinished primary care centre in Ballyhaunis.
A completion date of late 2025 has been announced for the new Ballyhaunis Primary Health Care Centre.
Assistant National Director of HSE Capital and Estates, Joe Hoare, told the HSE West Regional Forum meeting last week that the builder had started back on site in recent weeks after the project was stalled nearly three years ago.
"Significant activity on site is not anticipated until October when both the mechanical and electrical subcontractors are due to return.
The builder has been engaging with his supply chain and an updated construction programme to completion is being finalised once they have confirmation from the various trades on the extent of works to be completed and timelines for same.
“A detailed programme for commencement through to completion is awaited and is expected to be submitted in the coming weeks. The HSE cannot confirm this date at present. However, it is anticipated that the building works will be completed within 10 months. A minimum allowance of two further months would be required for the HSE to equip the building following agreement of practical completion. Therefore, it is expected the HSE might occupy the building in late 2025.”
Cllr Alma Gallagher, who raised the issue, asked whether there was any sense of urgency about completing the project.
“Ballyhaunis has a rising population and the existing centre is not fit for service and is, in fact, a health hazard at the moment in terms of the health and safety conditions staff are working under. I wonder can the HSE put more energy behind it and not leave responsibility to the contractor. We don’t want it to be left lingering.”
Regional Executive Officer Tony Canavan assured Cllr Gallagher that the proposed time-frame was achievable.
