“This investment in modern facilities which support and enable older people is strengthening our health services for the future,” according to Dermot Monaghan HSE IHA (Integrated Healthcare Area) Manager, Donegal, speaking as he confirmed that the new 110 Bed Letterkenny Community Healthcare Facility currently under construction on Kilmacrennan Road, Letterkenny, is on track for completion in 2026, providing a significant boost in capacity for the care of older people across Letterkenny and the wider county of Donegal.
Dermot added that the facility will also: “deliver an integrated care pathway, with step-down and short-stay beds allowing patients to leave Letterkenny University Hospital sooner, receive specialist care locally, and continue recovery at home in line with Sláintecare principles.”
The new unit is a major enhancement of health services and will provide modern, fit for purpose clinical services and accommodation for both short and long term care. The inclusion of a new 10 bed Dementia Unit as part of this development will provide a person-centred, safe and appropriate environment designed around the needs of people living with dementia and their families.
Construction is currently at an advanced stage. Substantial completion is expected before the end of 2026, with the building becoming operational in early 2027, following the completion of equipping, and commissioning.
According to Frank Morrison, HSE Head of Older Persons Services in Donegal, they are now:
“in the final phases of construction of this significant project and will be moving to commissioning and fit out over the coming months. One of our priorities throughout this project was to create a modern and functional workplace, where the highest quality care can be delivered.
“Work will continue into 2026, with the focus now moving to internal services, staffing and preparing the building for patient admission. The HSE will shortly be recruiting for a wide range of roles to deliver this important service for Donegal.”
This development is in line with the HSE Corporate Plan priority of providing the right care - setting out to implement models of care that improve the efficiency and effectiveness of services in areas such as older persons and dementia. It also brings care closer to home, makes specialist care locally available and improves access across the acute hospital system.