29 May 2017
By Tom Collins
tom@TheCork.ie
Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Health, Billy Kelleher has said the Sisters of Charity have taken the right decision to remove themselves from the operation of the St. Vincent’s Hospital Group, and the new National Maternity Hospital.
Billy Kelleher TD
“This decision, I believe, is in the best interests of both the organisation and of patients, and will provide a blueprint for other religious organisations to follow.
“The Sisters of Charity have provided excellent medical and nursing care to the people of Ireland for generations.
Their contribution should be recognised and celebrated, but in 2017, it’s time to find a better and more modern model for the delivery of acute and maternal health services.
“This decision will allow the Minister develop a new governance model that ensures clinical independence and autonomy for the new National Maternity Hospital.
“Minister Harris must now come forward with a proposal that ensures that the State’s €300 million investment in the new Maternity Hospital is reflected, and protected, in its ownership and governance structure.
“Compliance with both national and international best practice, and adherence to the laws of Ireland should be the basic benchmark for any hospital providing care to the people of Ireland.
“This is a welcome move, and one I believe will serve the interests of the people of Ireland concluded Kelleher.
