A West Cork TD has hit out the decision to close seven mental health beds at Bantry General Hospital.
Deputy Michael Collins was speaking in the Dáil after the Mental Health Commission instructed the HSE to reduce the number of people who can be treated at the unit from 18 to 11.
A report by the commission found that the building on the grounds of the hospital was not fit for purpose following several inspections.
The HSE say they are exploring all options available to them and are in discussions with the Mental Health Commission.
Deputy Micheal Collins says the HSE must appeal the A West Cork TD has hit out the decision to close seven mental health beds at Bantry General Hospital. decision.
"Somebody has made a major, major cock up here, and somebody has to put their hand up and say who it is.
"Heads have to roll here, because we cannot be in a situation where we go from 18 beds to 11, and ye walk away.
"The Taoiseach was down in Bantry Hospital two weeks ago, promising the earth moon and the stars, opening an injury unit that was open 9 years previous.
"Now, I welcome the Taoiseach at any time to come to West Cork, I'd never refuse him to come to Bantry Hospital, for God's sake come down and give us some good news.
"He promised there'd be no loss of services, and here we are two weeks later, a massive loss of service being proposed in the mental health service."
