The Taoiseach has confirmed that a decision on the future of the Longford Physiotherapy service will be made next week. The issue was brought up in the Dáil this afternoon by local Fine Gael TD Micheál Carrigy during Taoiseach Questions.
The physiotherapy service has been operating from a building in the community care centre in the wider campus, serving care centre service users and members of the public. A recent HIQA report highlighted concerns that public access through the nursing home to the service was impacting the residents.
As a short term solution the service was relocated to a temporary location while the access issues were worked out. Staff and service users have highlighted fears that physio would be removed to Mullingar or Athlone, if no solution is found.
According to Deputy Carrigy, the Minister for Older People Kieran O'Donnell is against the removal of the service from Longford, with answers now due from the HSE. Addressing the Taoiseach this afternoon, the Longford Westmeath TD stated that common sense needs to prevail:
Responding to the local deputy, Taoiseach Micheál Martin stated that a feasibility study has been carried out and a decision on the access issue is due next week:
