THE Government has been asked to provide additional financial supports for nursing homes following the announcement that Riverbrook Nursing Home in Castleconnell is facing possible closure.
Responding to the news that the nursing home has entered into a collective consultancy period with its 31 staff, Limerick Sinn Féin Senator Gavan has called for the implementation of an all party Oireachtas Report that recommended increased funding for the nursing home sector.
“Many nursing homes have come through a particularly challenging period over the last couple of years facing additional expenditure costs amid the challenges of Covid, and Riverbrook is no exception. The government have long been aware of the need for additional investment across this sector but have failed to act, even after an Oireachtas report told them to do so,” Senator Gavan explained.
“ Riverbrook has provided an excellent standard of care and good jobs for decades in Castleconnell. It currently provides care for 22 residents. The government should be actively looking to maintain this care facility rather than see it close. It should also be examining what other parts of the HSE elder care or disability services could use this facility and act quickly.
“Government also needs to work with families of loved ones who are residents in Riverbrook to ensure they receive all necessary assistance if it does prove necessary to find alternative care facilities.”
Senator Gavan, who lives in Castleconnell, said the threat to Riverbrook was potentially a major blow to the village, and needs an urgent response.
“Having a quality nursing home in the village has provided significant support and comfort to families for over forty years. It also plays an important part in our village economy. The government knows the current model of elder care is not fit for purpose, it needs to act now to secure this care facility rather than see the permanent closure of our nursing home,” he concluded.
