Campaigners demand move on promised geriatric unit

CAMPAIGNERS who opposed the closure of a ward at Waterford’s only geriatric hospital yesterday demanded to know what plans the HSE has in relation to a new 50-bed unit promised prior to the closure, which occurred one year ago yesterday.

There has been much public objection, in the south-east in the past two years, in relation to the closure of the 19-bed St Bridget’s Ward at St Patrick’s (geriatric) Hospital on John’s Hill in the city.

The executive maintained that the closure was vital for health and safety reasons, while this has been criticised by staff at the hospital and the Friends of St Patrick’s.