New Health Forum Established for Mid-West Region to Address Local Issues

A new health forum dedicated to the Mid-West region has been established to address pressing health issues impacting Limerick, Clare, and North Tipperary. The inaugural meeting is scheduled for March 2024, with representation from Limerick City and County Council comprising half of the forum’s membership.

Councillor Michael Collins has been elected as the chairperson, while Councillor Rita McInerney from Clare County Council will serve as vice chairperson. Councillor Francis Foley will oversee committee meetings. The formation of this forum marks a significant shift, as the Mid-West was previously included in the larger HSE West region.

The forum will consist of fourteen members, including representatives from Limerick City and County Council, Tipperary County Council, and Clare County Council. The Limerick representatives include Councillors Sharon Benson, Bridie Collins, Greg Conway, Liam Galvin, and Elisa O’Donovan. Tipperary’s representatives are Councillors Phyll Bugler, Seamie Morris, and JP O’Meara, while Clare’s members include Councillors Antoinette Baker Bashua, Mary Howard, and James Ryan.

In his remarks following his election as chairperson, Councillor Collins stated, “It’s a historic day for the HSE and for Limerick, Clare, and North Tipperary. I look forward to working with the management and staff of the HSE in our region, along with my fellow forum members.”

The establishment of the regional health forum is seen as a pivotal step in improving health and social care services for residents. Maria Bridgeman, integrated healthcare area manager for HSE Mid-West, expressed optimism about the new forum. “Since the establishment of regional health forums, the people of Limerick, Clare, and North Tipperary have been ably represented by elected members seeking answers on a range of health and social care services relied upon by our community.”

Bridgeman anticipates that the new geographical alignment will foster a more focused approach to regional health issues benefiting both elected officials and the HSE Mid-West. She congratulated Councillor Collins on his leadership role, stating, “I look forward to working with all forum members in the years ahead as we deliver services to the people of the region.”

The forum’s meetings will include senior HSE managers who will address questions raised by councillors, ensuring that local concerns are directly communicated to health authorities. This initiative aims to strengthen the connection between elected representatives and healthcare providers, ultimately enhancing the delivery of health services in the Mid-West region.