Michael Fitzgerald was speaking at a virtual Joint Committee on Health where the closure of the centre in Midleton is being currently being discussed.
The HSE say an independent consultant identified a number of issues with the building including problems with fire safety and the presence of asbestos.
The meeting has also heard that the 1970s building had reached the end of its useful life.
Patients, their families and local and national representatives say they are fearful the service itself will be lost if the unit in Midleton is closed.
Speaking in response to a question from Deputy Neasa Hourigan, Michael Fitzgerald also addressed St Stephens Psychiatric Hospital in Glanmire:
