HSE indicate early 2024 start date for Birr Primary Care construction

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has confirmed to Independent TD Carol Nolan that the
contractor for the proposed Birr Primary Care Centre will be in a position to mobilise works on
site in early Quarter 1 2024.

Deputy Nolan has consistently raised the matter over the last number of years with the Minister
for Health and also with the Chief Officer of the Midlands Louth Meath Community Health
Organisation.

The Independent TD has also reiterated her concerns that the staffing of the new Primary Care
Centre may be adversely impacted by the newly imposed recruitment freeze for additional HSE
service staff.

According to Deputy Nolan this issue must be clarified immediately particularly as the Centre is
expected to cater for Speech & Language Therapy in addition to Public Health, Nursing,
Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Dental and Mental Health services, all of which are due to
be impacted by the hiring embargo.

“I have been working continuously over the last number of years to ensure that Birr and the
surrounding communities get the Primary Care Centre they deserve,” said Deputy Nolan.

“That is why I welcome the latest confirmation from the HSE that construction is expected to
commence in early 2024.

“It is my understanding from the HSE that it has been proactively engaging on the matter but
that it was awaiting clarification with respect to legal documentation before a commencement
date could be signed off.

“In any event, what I want is certainty on the staffing issues and for work to begin and for a start
to be made on this vitally important piece of local and indeed regional, health infrastructure,”
concluded Deputy Nolan.