Fine Gael TD for Wicklow, Simon Harris has today (Monday) urged the HSE to support the Magheramore site for the Wicklow Hospice in the wake of yesterday’s landmark announcement at their chosen site.
1,000 people were in attendance as the Wicklow Hospice Foundation yesterday announced that they are to proceed to apply for planning permission for the Hospice at their chosen site, following their success at fundraising in excess of the €3million target.
Speaking in the wake of yesterday’s announcement, Deputy Harris said: “I firstly wish to congratulate the Wicklow Hospice Foundation on achieving this fantastic aim and reaching a huge milestone in fundraising in excess of their target of €3million. This was a huge feat and required the support of the entire community. It further shows the goodwill of the people of Wicklow and the sheer determination to see the long-awaited Wicklow Hospice come to fruition.
“With this in mind, I now urge the HSE to get on board and support the site which has received the backing of a huge proportion of the Wicklow community. For too long there has been debate and uncertainly surrounding this vital service which is so badly needed in Wicklow.
“Planning permission approval for the site will be another huge step in making the Hospice a reality as the aim is to hit the ground running with the building of the facility once the HSE gives the green light.
“The time has come for decisive action to be taken by the HSE. As time drags on, more and more Wicklow residents are being deprived of a Hospice and facing the unfortunate situation of having close family and friends pass away in acute hospitals, miles from home.
“The people of Wicklow deserve a Hospice and Magheramore is the best place for such a facility. The HSE must now recognise the will of the community and support Magheramore,” concluded Deputy Harris.
