Juan McGuinness says it 'just feels like another example of Ramsey and the north being second best'
A Ramsey Town Commissioner says the delay to replacing Cummal Mooar is 'another example of Ramsey being second best' in eyes of government'.
Earlier this week, a Tynwald written question revealed there is no 'fixed date for bringing a financial motion forward' for the replacement of Cummal Mooar.
You can read more HERE.
Initially, the plan had been to deliver a 45-bed residential facility with day centre in Ramsey, but in her response to MHK Lawrie Hooper, Claire Christian says the department and Manx Care are now exploring a redesigned model to drive forward its new 'Home First' model.
Juan McGuinness told Manx Radio he's 'not surprised but [is] disappointed' by the latest update:
Mr McGuinness says: "While the department talks about 'modern, flexible' models of care, the reality is that carers and families across the north are being left without the respite and support a new facility would provide.
"The “Home First” strategy may suit some, but it cannot be a substitute for proper residential provision in the heart of Ramsey.
"Instead of caring about care, this feels like an exercise in stalling from our Isle of Man Government - avoiding spending the money while residents and staff continue to shoulder the burden."
The health minister has said the project is still 'firmly on the agenda'.
Claire Christian says her department 'remains fully committed to delivering a modern, flexible replacement for Cummal Mooar in the centre of the town - one that supports our vision of enabling people to receive the right care, as close to home as possible, right in the heart of the community'.
You can find her statement in full in the published written question HERE.
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