New Acute Psychiatric Unit Opens In Drogheda

A new multi-million acute psychiatric in-patient unit has been officially opened in Drogheda by the Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Helen McEntee.

The new hospital will provide a modern, safe and secure therapeutic environment, which will greatly enhance the capacity of the local HSE to work with service users and their families to achieve recovery from mental health problems.

The purpose-built facility of 46 single en-suite rooms will replace the out-dated facilities at Navan and Ardee, and is in line with implementing national policies and best international practice on mental health care. The HSE has recruited over 30 additional staff to open this facility, in conjunction with more than 80 new community-based staff across the region in recent times to better support clients in their local areas.

Speaking at the opening of the facility, Minister Mc Entee TD said: "I very much welcome this new acute in-patient mental health unit which represents a long overdue modern approach to more integrated mental health provision in the Louth/Meath area. It symbolises this Government's continued commitment to phase out antiquated facilities, and to develop all aspects of this key care programme, whether at residential or community based care. I would like to pay tribute to the many people who campaigned for this state of the art facility, which will significantly improve the care environment for those who use or work in mental health services. In tandem with today's announcement, this initiative will also allow the HSE to refocus services in Navan, such as providing a new Day Hospital and other community based services."

(MH/CD)