I have heralded the commencement of construction work on the site of the Old Grove as a ‘red-letter day’ for Tuam and North Galway.
‘The building has been empty since the Bons Secours closed the hospital in October 2000. Subsequently the building and site was purchased by the HSE. The Old Grove refurbishment sees a capital investment of €13 million to transform the buildings to a Mental Health Day Hospital and will also accommodate the disability services in one location to best serve the needs of Tuam and North Galway.
‘Paul Carey of Carey Developments is the successful contractor and they have commenced work on site today, 14th June. This project is a major boost in the provision of health services for Tuam and North Galway. It will also bring back to life an iconic building in the centre of the town.
‘I want to acknowledge all who campaigned over the years for this day and I acknowledge the support received from former Minister for Health Simon Harris and former Minister for Disabilities and Tuam native, Finian McGrath, both of whom visited the site and supported my campaign to bring this project to reality. I also acknowledge the professional approach of HSE technical staff on this project.
‘I envisage that the construction phase will take 18 months to complete and that the building will be completely operational in 2023.’