HSE expects delay in closure date of Midleton mental health centre

The entire process of closing the Owenacurra Mental Health Centre in Midleton is expected to take several months to complete, beyond the original targeted closure date of 31 October, Cork East Fine Gael TD, David Stanton, has been informed by the HSE.

The HSE has also confirmed its intention to further engage with residents and their families and improve communication in order to find the most appropriate placements possible to ensure the minimum disruption to residents.

Deputy Stanton said: “I requested in the Dáil last week and at the Oireachtas Sub-Committee on Mental Health this week, that the deadline of 31 October, which I saw as arbitrary, should not be set in stone. The HSE has also restated its commitment to keep the day service in Midleton at an alternative location”.

“I remain committed to the residential service not being lost in Midleton and in East Cork and expect the HSE to bring forward plans at the earliest possible time for the replacement of the current facility to ensure residential and respite service will be available to the people and families that require them”.

“I also look forward to being further updated along with my colleagues in this regard”, concluded Deputy Stanton.