Cowen welcomes HSE response on reopening of day centres

Fianna Fáil TD for Laois-Offaly, Barry Cowen, has received assurances that the HSE is committed to the safe reopening of all day care centres in Tullamore, Clara and Birr in accordance with guidance on provision of day services for older people in the context of COVID 19 vaccination programme.

"The day service in Birr reopened on the 19th July last following refurbishment works. I now understand that the day service provided in Clara and Riada House will reopen following the recruitment of additional staff which is currently underway," Deputy Cowen said.

"Day centres are fundamental to the health and wellbeing of our older population and play a key role in enabling older people to live independently in their own communities.

"The pandemic and associated restrictions has had a profound impact across society and especially for our older population. My colleagues and I in Government have made it a priority to ensure that day centres reopen as quickly and as safely as possible, following the necessary closure of centres in response to COVID-19," he ended.