A new chapter in older persons’ care has begun in East Cork with the official opening of the Midleton Community Nursing Unit. The modern 50-bed facility, delivered through a public-private partnership, is designed to provide high-quality, person-centred care in a comfortable setting close to residents’ families and communities.
Minister of State for Older People and Housing Kieran O’Donnell, TD, officially opened the new HSE South West facility on 16 October 2026. The unit replaces the older buildings associated with Midleton Community Hospital and provides both short-stay and long-stay accommodation.
Midleton Community Nursing Unit brings modern care to East Cork
The Midleton Community Nursing Unit has been designed around dignity, independence and wellbeing. Its layout is divided into two 25-bed households, creating a more personal and home-like environment for residents.
Accommodation includes a combination of single and twin en-suite bedrooms. The facility also features:
- Day rooms and dining areas
- Activity spaces and landscaped outdoor areas
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy rooms
- Clinical treatment rooms
- A family overnight stay room
- A hairdressing salon
The first residents moved into the facility in July 2026. Its completion has also enabled HSE South West to provide temporary accommodation for residents of Marymount Older Person’s Service while capital works continue at the Curraheen facility.
Residents placed at the centre of care
The new setting is intended to support routines, relationships and activities that are important to residents. Staff have reported positive feedback from residents and their families since the move, with the unit offering communal areas where people can socialise, relax and take part in activities.
Cork GAA legend Kevin Hennessy is among the residents settling into the new facility. He described the building as bright, welcoming and designed with residents in mind, highlighting the supportive staff and communal day rooms.
Government and HSE welcome healthcare investment
Minister Kieran O’Donnell said the facility represents a major addition to older persons’ services in Midleton and East Cork. He also praised the dedication of staff and the work of the HSE and project partners in delivering the development.
Sonya Cotter, Integrated Healthcare Area Manager for Cork North and East, said the project demonstrates a commitment to providing modern care closer to local communities. Grace Tabuno, Director of Nursing, emphasised that residents remain at the centre of the unit’s daily work.
The project aligns with wider public-service priorities reflected across gov.ie, including investment in Health and community-based services. While the Health Service Executive (HSE) leads the service, agencies such as HIQA contribute to the broader framework for quality and patient safety in Irish healthcare.
What the new nursing unit means for local families
For families in Midleton and surrounding parts of East Cork, the facility provides access to residential care and rehabilitation supports within the local area. Its short-stay and long-stay model may help residents receive appropriate care while remaining connected to familiar communities.
The development also strengthens local healthcare infrastructure by combining residential accommodation with therapy, treatment and social spaces. This integrated approach can support residents’ physical health, emotional wellbeing and everyday independence.
A significant milestone for older people’s services
The opening of the Midleton Community Nursing Unit marks an important investment in care for older people in East Cork. With purpose-built accommodation, specialist facilities and a focus on person-centred support, the unit is intended to offer residents a safe, respectful and welcoming place to live.
Key takeaway: The new Midleton Community Nursing Unit expands modern HSE South West services and brings 50 beds, therapy facilities and home-like care closer to older people and their families in the region.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE
