There’s uncertainty over the future of Cashel Na Cor in Buncrana.
Staff at the day centre for young adults with learning disabilities were redeployed last week to another centre which was dealing with a Covid-19 outbreak.
Parents were informed of the move and the service removed from those who regularly attend the centre with immediate effect.
The service was already reduced for service users from 5 to 2 days due to the pandemic.
In a statement, the HSE say they are committed to have the services reinstated as quickly as possible.
Averil, whose daughter attends the centre told today’s Nine til Noon Show that they have been left in a difficult position:
HSE Statement regarding Inishowen centre Covid-19 outbreak:
“A HSE run residential facility in the Inishowen area which provides 24/7 hour care to people with disabilities is currently experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak.
Residents and staff are affected and the service is ensuring that all Public Health guidance is being followed in dealing with the outbreak.
This includes measures such as restricting movements and isolating in order to prevent further transmission of the virus.”
“The number of staff available for work has been reduced as a result of the outbreak and incidence of COVID-19 in the area. The numbers of staff needed to run the 24/7 residential services could not be provided from within the staff assigned.
Every effort was made to source staff from other areas and agencies but this was not possible due to service requirements in other areas and the lack of agency staff available.
As a last resort, disability day services staff have had to be redeployed to provide care in residential services.”
“This has resulted in a temporary reduction in the provision of day services to some people who avail of day services in Cashel na Cor. A service will be provided ongoing to persons who meet Priority 1 criteria for day service provision. For some, home support will be provided instead of their day service.
The HSE regrets the impact of the measures that have had to be taken on persons who attend Cashel na Cor and their families.
The HSE is committed to having day services reinstated in Cashel na Cor as quickly as possible.
The incidence of COVID-19 in the Inishowen area which remains above the national average ongoing is of concern to the HSE. The HSE is urging all to continue following Public Health guidance in order to help keep each other safe during this pandemic.”
