A Kerry TD has told the Dáil of an anomaly that’s led to some families having to make five-hour round trips to visit loved ones in community hospitals.
Fianna Fáil TD Michael Cahill says he’s aware of patients in Kenmare Community Hospital who are from West Kerry, and patients in West Kerry Community Hospital from Kenmare.
He says the idea of families having to travel so far to visit relatives in community hospitals is outrageous, and it’s distressing for older people from the Gaeltacht who speak Irish 24/7, to be moved outside their environment.
The West Kerry Community Hospital currently has capacity for 46 beds, with 42 occupied, but Deputy Cahill says this should be increased significantly.
Staffing levels have been cited as the reason extra beds can’t be opened, and Deputy Cahill said this needs to be addressed.
Responding on behalf of Minister for Older People Kieran O’Donnell, Minister of State in the Department of Housing Christopher O’Sullivan said four new posts were approved for the hospital and so far, one has been filled.
He added that he will follow up directly with Minister O’Donnell.
