Donard Health Centre Deemed Surplus To Requiremenst by HSE

The West Wicklow centre will not be re-opened and is instead being disposed of.

There's disappointment at confirmation from the HSE that Donard Health Centre in West Wicklow will not be re-opened. 

The centre was closed during the Covid pandemic and has never re-opened. Its prolonged closure has left the building in a poor and dilapidated condition, and in need of serious refurbishment.

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow John Brady says the decision is a major blow for the community:

"Donard Health Centre was a hugely important local service, particularly for the aging population in Donard and the neighbouring towns and villages. It gave people access to healthcare on their doorstep without the need for long and costly journeys. Doctors used to travel to the centre weekly and it made a real difference to older people and those with limited transport."
 

Members of the Donard Irish Countrywomen's Association were among those disappointed by the long closure of centre. Many expressed inconvenience at having to make 10 to 20-mile round trips to see a doctor.

Donard residents, local organisations and community groups were also advocating for the reopening of the health centre - pointing out the impact the closure has had on the local community.

The HSE previously indicated the centre was being considered under its Minor Capital Programme for refurbishment and a return to use. However, in response to a parliamentary question tabled by Deputy Brady, the HSE confirmed it deems the centre surplus to requirements and will dispose of it. 

Deputy Brady says it's the wrong decision for a rural area like West Wicklow:

"Health centres like Donard are not just bricks and mortar. They are vital hubs for rural communities, offering basic GP care and providing the potential to host other community health and wellbeing services. To discard this resource is a mistake that will leave people travelling long distances for the most basic care."
 

He has written to the HSE seeking a review of the decision.