Galway Hospice did not get pick of Merlin Park sites

The HSE West offered only one site as a new home for Galway Hospice, it has been confirmed.

Contrary to rumours circulating locally that Galway Hospice was given a list of several sites to choose from to build their new facility, the HSE has confirmed it offered only one site.

Tony Canavan, Chief Officer with HSE West, confirmed Galway Hospice was not offered a list of sites to pick from at Merlin Park.

He said that Galway Hospice was given an outline of what other developments the HSE had for the available space at Merlin Park.

Mr Canavan said Galway Hospice “selected the site based on their objectives and criteria including matters of location, space, access, identity, therapeutic environment etcetera.”

“It was clear the Hospice were of the view that there was no (other) suitable site within the built-up campus in light of their requirements. The site location chosen also had some relevant prior planning history with planning having been granted to the Western Alzheimer’s project.

“This was in line with a specific objective in eth City Development Plan at the time,” added Mr Canavan.

He was responding at the HSE Regional Health Forum to questioning from City Councillor, Terry O’Flaherty.

The Independent councillor welcomed clarity in Mr Canavan’s response because rumours had been circulating that Galway Hospice had been offered alternative sites to the one near Merlin Woods, which has proved controversial and divisive.