Plans for Waterford Primary Care Centre put on hold as provider withdraws
The HSE said it would be too premature to project a timeline for the development of the centre
Plans for a new Primary Care Centre in Lismore have been put on ice as the HSE has confirmed that a preferred provider for the centre has pulled out due to the “economic viability” of the project.
Responding to a parliamentary question from Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor McGuinness, the HSE said “current and future service needs” for Lismore were under review.
Plans for the new primary care centre were first announced in 2023, and the HSE said plans were progressing in 2025.
Deputy McGuinness said the news marks another blow to Waterford’s rural communities.
“This project was identified years ago. A provider was selected. Yet here we are again, with the HSE confirming the contractor has withdrawn and that the entire proposal is effectively back under review,” said Deputy McGuinness.
“Families are struggling to secure timely GP appointments. Children and older people are waiting too long for dental services.
“Healthcare staff are operating in facilities that are not fit for purpose. Communities need properly resourced primary care centres alongside strengthened GP and dental provision.”
The HSE said that the review of Lismore’s healthcare accommodation would be completed in the coming months, but it would be too premature to project a possible timeline for a new development.
“Mary Butler has been a junior minister in the Department of Health for six years,” Deputy McGuinness continued.
“In that time, what has been delivered for Lismore and for rural Waterford? The reality is that access pressures remain and promised infrastructure has stalled.”
