Progress made on 'urgently needed' care centre for Douglas 

PROGRESS has been made on a primary care centre for the Douglas area.

The HSE has confirmed that submissions have been received and assessed from interested parties to build the centre, and the suitable submissions have been shortlisted. Interested parties will be invited to bid for the tender.

However, there are quite a number of other steps that must be taken before construction begins, and another significant period of time before a phased opening.

The information was provided to Fianna Fáil Cork South Central TD Michael McGrath after he sought assurances on the progression of the centre.

Deputy McGrath said, “I welcome confirmation that progress is being made in regard to the new primary care centre. The population of Douglas has increased substantially over the past decade and these services are urgently needed."

A primary care centre has existed in Blackrock Hall, Cork for a number of years and a primary care centre opened in Carrigaline in 2018. These are the two closest to the Douglas area currently.

It was initially confirmed that a primary care centre would be established in the Douglas area in April 2019 following calls to create a service for the growing population. The population now stands close to 30,000 and takes in the Rochestown, Donnybrook and Grange areas.

The HSE has also confirmed to Mr Michael McGrath that work is underway with developers regarding the progression of a primary care centre in Togher.

Primary care centres aim to provide everyday healthcare services.