Members of Donard ICA outside the Donard Health Centre in 2024. Photo: Joe Byrne
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has confirmed that Donard Health Centre in west Wicklow will not be re-opened and is instead being disposed of.
The centre was closed during the Covid 19 pandemic and has never re-opened. It’s prolonged closure has left the building in a poor and dilapidated condition, and now in need of significant refurbishment.
The HSE had previously indicated the centre was being considered under its Minor Capital Programme for refurbishment and a return to use.
However, in response to a recent parliamentary question tabled by Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow John Brady, the HSE has now confirmed that it deems the centre surplus to requirements and will dispose of it.
Deputy Brady said this was the wrong decision and it will have a negative knock-on effect for the rural area.
“I am firmly opposed to this decision from the HSE. Donard Health Centre has the potential to be a positive asset for the area if properly invested in. With the decision to dispose of the building, it ensures that the closure is permanent and is an enormous loss to the local community.”
“We need increased funding and expansion of vital services like these, not for them to be cut and removed. Communities across West Wicklow deserve access to local, community-based healthcare and I will continue to campaign for this”.
Deputy Brady confirmed he has written to the HSE seeking a review of the decision.
“Health centres like Donard are not just bricks and mortar. They are vital hubs for rural communities, offering basic GP care and providing the potential to host other community health and wellbeing services.
The HSE doesn’t believe it would be able to provide the high refurbishment costs needed to meet the relevant health and safety requirements that would allow the centre to reopen.
Deputy Brady believes the move will come as a major blow to the community.
“To discard this resource is a mistake that will leave people travelling long distances for the most basic care. Donard Health Centre was a hugely important local service, particularly for the aging population in Donard and the neighbouring towns and villages.”
“It gave people access to healthcare on their doorstep without the need for long and costly journeys.”
“Doctors used to travel to the centre weekly and it made a real difference to older people and those with limited transport.” he added.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme