The opening of the new Central Mental Hospital has been delayed again despite the construction being completed for two years.
The reason for the delay is a staffing dispute between the HSE and staff. The current CMH in Dundrum, which was built in the 1850s, has been criticised for being "not fit for purpose".
The Mental Health Commission previously reported that the Dundrum facility was not being kept in good state of repair, inadequate privacy in some bathrooms and bedrooms as well as some rooms not being properly furnished. The CMH is responsible for the treating some of the most violent offenders who come before the courts.
Read more: Plans lodged for almost 1,000 new social and affordable homes in Dundrum
The new CMH in Portrane was completed in 2020 at a cost of €170 million. It is the state's second most expensive health project and has the capacity to house 170 beds.
The Portrane facility is set to open in quarter three of this year, according to the HSE. A spokeswoman said: "The estimated opening date for the new Central Mental Hospital in Portrane is Q3 of 2022. A process is under way to finalise the training for staff and this will be ongoing in the coming months.
"Registration of the hospital in Portrane as an Approved Centre is also being finalised with the Mental Health Commission."
However, the Psychiatric Nurses Association said there are still "outstanding issues" that need to be addressed before the new facility can open. A spokesman for the PNA said: "There are a number of outstanding issues relating to staffing and operational matters to be addressed regarding the opening of the new National Forensic Psychiatric Hospital in Portrane, North Dublin.
"PNA is in positive engagement with the HSE to resolve these issues in order that the hospital open as soon as possible."
Read Next:
Covid-19 Ireland: Stephen Donnelly announces new self-isolating rules as cases soar
Andrew McGinley says there is 'no future' between him and child killer wife Deirdre Morley
Devastated dad Andrew McGinley taking legal action against the HSE over alleged neglect
Son pays heartfelt tribute to beloved Dublin activist Nuala Kane following her death
Andrew McGinley urges Mental Health Act to be amended to prevent more tragedies
Sign up to the Dublin Live Newsletter to get all the latest Dublin news straight to your inbox.
