The HSE has announced that essential upgrading and refurbishment of Ballyshannon community nursing unit has been completed.
It means residents and staff who had previously been transferred to St Joseph’s Community Hospital in Stranorlar can now return to Ballyshannon.
In a statement to Ocean FM News the HSE has confirmed the completion of work at the facility best known locally as The Rock, and the transfer back of patients and staff from Stranorlar
Donna Reid, director of nursing, says the home was recently inspected by HIQA and is now approved for registration.
The upgraded facility can accommodate twenty seven residents in a combination of single shared bedrooms with ensuite facilities.
Residents and staff who transferred previously to St Joseph’s Community Hospital in Stranorlar are now being relocated to the upgraded unit in Ballyshannon .
Following this, the residents and staff currently based at the existing Sheil hospital will also transfer to the Ballyshannon Community Nursing Unit, starting the week of 15th March.
The move will take place over a number of weeks in order to ensure that all residents have every opportunity to become accustomed to this new, upgraded facility.
The vacating of the Sheil Community Hospital will enable the progression of works on the major capital project on the site .
John Hayes, HSE Chief Officer says people who have visited the Ballyshannon Community Nursing Unit have been impressed with the quality of the new accommodation.
He also says the work programme on the major capital project on the Sheil hospital site will now progress to the next essential phase of development.
Ballyshannon Based Fine Gael Councillor, Barry Sweeney, is welcoming the news.
The Leas Cathoirleach of the Donegal Municipal District says it will be sort of ‘homecoming’ for the residents and staff.
