Urgent Update: Portiuncula Hospital Maternity Services May Return

UPDATE: Positive developments signal that Portiuncula University Hospital may soon restore its maternity services after a prolonged suspension affecting high-risk pregnancies. Both HSE CEO Bernard Gloster and Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill have expressed optimism, marking a potential turning point for the hospital’s future.

In a crucial statement to the Oireachtas Health Committee, Gloster confirmed there are no plans to permanently close the maternity unit at Portiuncula, which has not accepted bookings for high-risk pregnancies since the end of October 2023. While he did not provide a specific timeline for reinstating these services, the assurance has sparked renewed hope among local officials and expectant mothers.

Last week, Minister MacNeill met with Galway East TD Pete Roche and Ballinasloe Councillor Alan Harney to discuss the hospital’s future. Harney emphasized that the minister is committed to restoring services when conditions allow and necessary improvements are made.

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It was also positive to hear from Bernard Gloster that the HSE are now aligned with the Minister’s position – which has not always been the case,”

Harney stated, highlighting the collaboration between the two entities.

Recent data shows that Portiuncula scored highly in the Maternity Patients Experience Survey for 2025, indicating a strong foundation for future service restoration. Harney noted that the implementation of recommendations from the Coulter Smith Report is progressing well, with five remaining reviews expected to be completed by March 2024.

Despite the encouraging news, Harney raised concerns about governance issues within the HSE that led to the suspension of high-risk maternity services, particularly the risks associated with forcing women to travel longer distances for care. “This is not something I want to see continue in the long term,” he emphasized.

The focus now shifts to ensuring safety and improved governance at Portiuncula, which Harney believes is essential for restoring full maternity services. He pledged to continue engaging with both the HSE and the Minister to advocate for the community’s needs.

As these developments unfold, expectant mothers and families in the region are hopeful for a swift resolution. The situation remains dynamic, and further updates are anticipated soon.

Stay tuned for more information on this critical issue affecting the community.