The INMO has referred the opening of the Killarney Community Nursing Unit to the Workplace Relations Commission which is due to get underway today.
The nurses' union has said it won't be commenting until the WRC proceedings are complete.
Radio Kerry understands the HSE is determined to open Killarney Community Nursing Unit immediately.
Construction of the 130-bed, Ballydribbeen facility began in 2022, with phased transfer of residents earmarked to move into the facility last week.
The Killarney Community Nursing Unit (CNU) was initially estimated for completion in late 2024, however it has faced several delays.
The Public Private Partnership (PPP) project was handed over to the HSE in December 2025.
It then initially failed to secure HIQA registration, despite a pre-registration visit taking place in January, and had to resubmit the application.
At a recent South West Regional Health Forum, general manager of HSE South West Fearghal Grimes advised phased transfer of residents to the facility would begin shortly.
It was hoped that 101 residents from Killarney District Hospital and St Columbanus Home would begin moving in on July 16th and that this would be finished by July 24th.
However, it’s understood the Killarney CNU is now not expected to open before September.
When contacted for comment, the HSE said the Irish Nurses' and Midwives' Organisation (INMO) has referred the opening of Killarney CNU for consideration by the WRC and that this will take place today.
