A Roscommon TD has reiterated calls for the development of a second 50-bed unit to alleviate overcrowding at Portiuncula Hospital. Independent TD Denis Naughten said provision had previously been made for an extra unit during talks about the unit that is currently in construction. One new 50-bed unit is due to be completed later this year but Deputy Naughten doesn't believe this will be sufficient.
He says staff at the hospital have put forward detailed plans for a modular unit which could be constructed next to the existing emergency department. Speaking to Shannonside News, Deputy Naughten said an urgent expansion is needed at the hospital in Ballinasloe: