HSE to buy prime council land

THE HSE plans to buy a large parcel of land from Wexford County Council.

The land is located directly opposite County Hall.

Last week’s county council meeting heard how submissions were invited for proposals for the development or sale of the land.

Councillors asked if a condition of the sale could be that the HSE would use the land for clinical development of Wexford General Hospital and not for an extension to the facility’s car park. Cllr George Lawlor said: ‘If we are going to future proof Wexford General Hospital by allowing them to buy a piece of land we want to ensure any development is for the clinical advancement of the hospital.’

Director of Services for Economic Development Tony Larkin said: ‘The HSE and I have been in discussions about the purchase of the land. They haven’t committed themselves for the long term but it is my understanding that it is for a building.’

He said he has no objection to the HSE using the land for a car park. CEO Tom Enright said the council has received a number of bids for the land and the HSE is the preferred bidder. ‘I’ve no problem with the car park. They could use the existing car park for the future expansion of the hospital and then use this as a car park.’

Cllr Lawlor said councillors voted on a motion put forward by Cllr Ger Carthy that the space would be used for clinical purposes. He was informed that management discussions with the HSE predated the motion. ‘I think it’s a bit disingenuous to comment on when I put my motion in,’ Cllr Carthy said.

Cllr Hynes backed Clr Lawlor, saying the land could be used for a 24/7 psychiatric unit.