MEETING NEXT MONTH TO DISCUSS FUTURE OF TOGHERMORE HOUSE RESIDENTIAL UNIT

Date Published: 21-Dec-2012

The HSE has agreed to meet with concerned local representatives and staff members next month (Jan) to provide an update on the future of Toghermore House residential unit in Tuam.

It follows a meeting this afternoon between HSE Area Manager Catherine Cunningham, the Facility Manager and local Cllrs and a number of Galway East TDs.

All 16 residents at the facility are to be transferred to alternative accommodation on a phased basis by mid January.

It follow's an independent Fire and Safety report on the 18 bed facility which was undertaken in September and delivered to the HSE last week.

It shows shortfalls in relation to fire safety that are to be addressed with immediate effect.

A local steering group has been established to address the issues and no other mental health services are affected in the Toghermore complex.

Tuam Town Cllr Tom Reilly says a proposal was made at this afternoon's meeting to look into possible funding for the necessary fire standard restoration works from the local Mental Health Association trust.

He says the closure of the facility would be a huge loss to the North Galway and Tuam areas and will be fought for again at a meeting in mid-January.