The Minister with responsiblity for Mental health is being asked to reconsider reforms of the Clare Mental Health services, which includes the closure of the Orchard Lodge Facility in Kilrush.
Minister John Moloney is to inspect HSE plans for change in Clare today including the transfer of patients between Cappahard Lodge and St Joseph’s in Ennis and the transfer of residents at the Orchard Lodge facility to private nursing home care.
The Health Minister previously told Clare FM that reforms are being made primarily in the interests of patient needs, given that many residents may be better provided for in elderly care facilities, though cost efficiency is also a factor in the plan.
Cooraclare Councillor Bill Chambers is questioning the financial sense of removing Orchard Lodge residents following significant investment however, and is also concerned about the loss of a key part of the Kilrush community.
