Opening of St Ita’s 72-bed unit
The unit’s opening date cannot be set because psychiatric nurses’ unions oppose the proposed staffing arrangements. The Minister acknowledged the need and said he would work to resolve the dispute so it can open as soon as possible.
asked the Minister for Health when it is anticipated that the new 72 bed unit at Saint Ita's Hospital, Portrane, County Dublin will be opened.
Comment on this
It is not possible to say at this stage when this unit will be opened. The unions representing the psychiatric nurses at the hospital have expressed disagreement with the proposed staffing arrangements for the unit. I am seeing what can be done to resolve this dispute but, in the meantime, the opening date cannot be fixed.
Comment on this
Is the Minister aware that there is a great need for this unit at present at St. Ita's? Would the Minister give the House assurance that every effort will be made to bring about a satisfactory agreement with the unions and other interested parties so that the unit can be opened as soon as possible?