Dáil Debate: Delay in Opening Dementia Unit at Heather House Nursing Home in Cork (data.oireachtas.ie)

• Deputy Thomas Gould criticises four-year delay in opening epilepsy unit at Heather House, Cork.
• Unit reduced from 19 to 17 beds after HIQA required single rooms.
• Minister Kieran O'Donnell promises imminent opening and personal oversight.
• Gould demands concrete date for families and presents waiting list.

"In the Dáil debate on 15 April 2026, the delay in opening a dedicated dementia unit at Heather House Community Nursing Unit in Cork was discussed. Deputy Thomas Gould criticised that the 19-bed unit (now 17) announced in 2022 remains unopened after four years, despite the building being ready and equipped. Minister of State Kieran O'Donnell stated that final works agreed with HIQA are underway and opening is imminent. Gould demanded a specific date for affected families."