Not economically viable to re-open hydrotherapy pool at Cregg, meeting is told
He said senior HSE management recently met with respect to the hydrotherapy pool at the former Cregg Campus and following consideration a decision has been made not to progress/pursue a business case pertaining to the re-opening of the pool.
'A number of factors were considered in reaching this decision.' he said.
'Substantial financial resources would be required in order to bring the pool to a standard which both adheres to safety regulations and also comprehensively meets the needs of people potentially requiring the service.
'Furthermore, the HSE is mandated in utilising available resources in the most beneficial, effective and efficient manner. The re-opening of the hydrotherapy pool is not economically viable. Ultimately, the HSE is closing out all its arrangements within the former Cregg Campus.
'This decision is in line with current national HSE policy, such as the New Directions Policy for Adult Disability Day Services, which focuses on shifting from traditional, disability specific and centre based models of care to more individualised, outcome focused supports including community inclusion and active citizenship i.e. a community based social model of care.
'Furthermore, the decision was made following cross care group consultation within the HSE, the future and anticipated demand for hydrotherapy and with the needs of service users to the fore.
'Finally, any service user, who is clinically identified as requiring the use of a hydrotherapy pool, may be facilitated in Our Lady's Hospital, Manorhamilton.' he said.
Cllr Declan Bree, said he was disappointed with the response, particularly given the fact that the hydrotherapy pool in Cregg had been part funded by the public
'Many disabled people, people with Multiple Sclerosis, with Cerebral Palsy, with Parkinsons Disease, require the use of a hydrotherapy pool.
'I note from the reply I have received today that any service user, who is clinically identified as requiring the use of a hydrotherapy pool, can be facilitated in Our Lady's Hospital, in Manorhamilton.
'I welcome this because it has been my view, for quite some time, that the hydrotherapy pool in Manorhamilton was not being used to its full potential,' he said.
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