Taoiseach Simon Harris officially opens new €35 million ward block at Portiuncula University Hospital providing 50 beds

Taoiseach Simon Harris has today (Wednesday 11 September) officially opened a new 50 bedded ward block at Portiuncula University Hospital. The project is a €35 million capital investment for the hospital site.

This new development delivers in-patient single room accommodation in line with all current modern-day standards. The project consists of a two-storey building and is linked to the existing hospital by a corridor.

The Taoiseach said:

“This is a special project for me. As Minister for Health, I met with local representatives and staff at the hospital and heard directly about the need for this project. I am absolutely delighted to be here as Taoiseach to officially open it.

“I am acutely aware of how much this project means to the people of Galway and Roscommon and the impact it will have on this region. I have no doubt that these new wards will transform the patient experience here at Portiuncula hospital and will provide an improved working environment for staff."

Minister of State with special responsibility for Disability, Anne Rabbitte said:

“It's a great day for Portiuncula Hospital to have this new 50 bed unit open. This has been a long time in the works and I've been keen to see this project over the line. The additional beds will significantly increase the capacity to treat patients, reduce wait times, and improve overall patient outcomes. I'm confident that this new ward will be a valuable asset to Portiuncula and the region, as well as ensuring that we are meeting the growing healthcare needs of the community and that more individuals have access to essential medical services."

The new development will facilitate the relocation of two existing wards from the main hospital building which are outdated. The Orchard and Garbally Wards each comprise of 25 single rooms with ensuite facilities and includes two dedicated negative pressure isolation rooms on each floor.

The design and layout of the new wards will deliver a patient centred approach, improve our patient experience and comfort while ensuring privacy and dignity for all patients and particularly for those requiring end of life care.

Both wards will treat medical and respiratory patients and will commence facilitating patients on a phased basis from mid-October 2024.

ENDS