Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has welcomed confirmation that the HSE expects to have two primary care centres fully operational in Ennis by the end of 2020.

The first centre will be built at Station Road where the HSE will occupy a 3,200 sq ft unit to provide a comprehensive range of community health services. This building will also serve as the local base for TUSLA, the child and family agency.

The HSE will also occupy almost 2,000 sq ft at second centre on the Tulla Road and Deputy Carey said that these projects will significantly enhance the range of services available in the Ennis area.

An agreement has been signed with the developer and, once planning permission has been secured, construction work could be completed by the end of 2020.

“These two projects, along with an earlier announcement that a site has been identified for a new €25 million community hospital to replace St. Joseph’s geriatric hospital, will have a major impact on the provision of health care in the town and surrounding areas.

“The site acquisition process for the 100-bed facility is well under way and due to be concluded by early next year, with the new hospital expected to be open by 2021,” Deputy Carey added.