Fine Gael Kerry TD, Brendan Griffin, has welcomed confirmation from the Minister for Health, Dr. James Reilly, that two new mental health units have been given the go-ahead for Kerry.

A new 40-bed unit will be constructed on the Cherryfield site in Killarney, while a 4-bed high intensity unit will be located on the grounds of Kerry General Hospital.

"I am delighted to receive confirmation from Minister Reilly that these two projects have been given the green light. I have been pressing the need for a new 40-bed unit to replace St Finan’s in Killarney for some time. Indeed, just last week I asked the Minister for an update on both projects.

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"It will come as a huge relief to staff, patients and families at St Finan’s that the old, out-dated unit will be replaced by a new state of the art facility. This will allow for vulnerable patients to be cared for in a modern environment which will facilitate the highest possible standards of care. Work on the new 40-bed unit is due to start this year.

"A total of €2 million will also be invested in the Mental Health Unit at Kerry General Hospital. The entire unit will be refurbished, and a new 4-bed high dependency unit will be installed, to care for patients that are in need of closer observation."

(CD/GK)