Detailed plans were submitted to Galway City Council by the Health Service Executive last week for the construction of a two-storey, 50 bed Acute Adult Mental Health Unit at University Hospital, Galway.

The unit will incorporate an Out-Patients department to accommodate the relocated Adult Acute Mental Health Service.

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Plans include a roof-top plant room to the western end of the plan, together with associated site works, to be located on an existing car park.

These plans have been submitted following claims by a consultant last December that the number of inpatient beds provided at Merlin Park, a psychiatric hospital for troubled teenagers in the west, was inadequate.

The specialised 20 bed unit, for treating teens with psychiatric problems, was recently opened by the HSE west.

According to the Irish Times, Clare-based Consultant Dr Moosajee Bhamjee said at least 50 beds were needed to cover the HSE west area stretching from Donegal to North Tipperary.

(JG)