The HSE has confirmed it wants to proceed with a primary care centre on the Áras Phádraig site.
That’s according to information provided by Kerry County Council in response to a motion from independent councillor Brendan Cronin, at the recent full council meeting.
Cllr Cronin told the council chamber that he won’t be accepting the answer from the HSE unless he hears it face to face.
He raised the motion asking whether clarity had been given on strategic buildings and lands in control of the Health Service.
The independent councillor asked in particular regarding usage of the Áras Phadraig in Killarney, ahead of an upcoming vote on the proposal.
In response it was advised that a recent meeting of HSE Capital Estates personnel, confirmed it wants to proceed with the primary care centre on the Lewis Road site.
Elected members were told that the HSE are currently preparing funding submissions to the Department of Health for the facility.
The response also stated that the HSE will use the St Columbanus facility in the interim to provide primary care services until the Áras Phádraig site is operational.
Cllr Cronin responded that he will not accept the response unless he’s told this in person.
He added he heard that response 10 years ago and Killarney councillors have been led up the garden path since.
Cllr Cronin said it’s critically important that elected members get an in person meeting with the HSE Capital Estate; adding the group needs to show a bit of courtesy and respect ahead of the upcoming vote on the Áras Phadraig.
The motion was seconded by independent councillor, Maura Healy-Rae.
