HSE review to address challenges at St. Hilda’s Services in Athlone in a ‘fundamental way’ – McFadden

Fine Gael TD for Longford Westmeath, Gabrielle McFadden, has been informed by Minister for Health Leo Varadkar TD, that the HSE has committed to carrying out a fundamental review of St Hilda’s Services in Athlone, to address the challenges currently facing the intellectual disability service-provider.

“I understand that the St Hilda’s review, described by the HSE as a ‘fundamental’ examination of services, will look at ways to develop sustainable services while also considering the current availability of resources. The outcome of this three month review must guarantee the protection of services against any future cuts.

“This review is welcome news and is part of a simultaneous review being carried out at St Christopher’s Services in Longford. While these reviews are progressing, the HSE will work with the both organisations to address cash flow issues that they may encounter.

“I am pleased that the HSE is committed to stabilising the current financial position of both service-providers in order to protect the current level of service provision. However we must remember that both reviews have come about because of the public outcry over the threat to vital intellectual disability services in Longford and Westmeath.

“Apart from significant fund-raising initiatives supplementing existing budgets, St Hilda’s and St Christopher’s provide exceptional value for money but more importantly, exceptional services under very difficult circumstances and in the face of growing demand.”