Waiting list of 50 prompts call for expansion of Leitrim nursing home

There is a waiting list of 50 people seeking access to services at Arus Breffni Nursing Home, a meeting of Manorhamilton Municipal District has heard.

Cllr Felim Gurn proposed that the Council and the HSE examine suitable land nearby to allow for the extension of the nursing home. Arus Breffni recently celebrated 50 years since opening, initially with a bed capacity of 40, which was later reduced to 25 to comply with standards set by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA).

The single-storey facility provides residential care for older people, accommodating 25 residents in a combination of single and twin occupancy rooms.

The nursing home underwent extensive refurbishment in 2021, and a HIQA report published in March of this year praised the home for its high standards of care and shared positive feedback from residents and families.

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Cllr Gurn noted that as the population increases and people live longer, expansion of the nursing home should be planned now.

“It’s a great facility,” commented Cllr Gurn, adding that planning needs to be done now with a view to four or five years from now, anticipating that an extension may be necessary.

It was explained that future development of the nursing home is a matter for the HSE, but if the HSE approaches Leitrim County Council for support, the Council can assist.

Cllr Gurn noted that he will propose the motion again at the next meeting of the HSE forum.

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