Hospital unit set for partial reopening after protests

The HSE has announced the partial reopening of a Waterford hospital unit whose sudden closure sparked a protest march last May.

In what is seen as a phased return to a full complement of beds, the HSE has informed the Dungarvan Community Hospital Action Group that the hospital’s Sacred Heart Ward will see six long-stay and six rehabilitation beds reopened from September 11.

The unit closed last May with the loss of 19 beds, adding to an earlier loss of seven beds. Areas affected were physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and palliative care. Patients were assigned to other wards, along with 16 care staff.