A full-time GP service is likely to be restored in Newmarket-on-Fergus by the end of June, health authorities have confirmed to Clare TD Joe Carey.
The local Fine Gael TD received the welcome news following recent representations to senior Health Service Executive (HSE) officials.
It will come as a relief for the people of Newmarket-on-Fergus, which has been without a full-time GP service since Dr Colm Hackett retired in May last year. Since Dr Hackett’s retirement, the people of Newmarket have had to travel to the Shannon Medical Centre to access medical services.
Deputy Carey said: “I have been told the recruitment of a GP for Newmarket is now at an ‘advanced stage’ and it’s hoped to have the successful candidate in place by the end of June.
“This is a very positive update, particularly in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, and will hopefully bring peace of mind to the people of Newmarket-on-Fergus, which has been without a GP for far too long.
“The HSE has assured me it is doing everything it can to speed up the appointment and to remove any red tape to ensure this hugely important service for Newmarket-on-Fergus and the surrounding catchment area is restored as quickly as possible.”
A native of Ennis, Colin McGann has been editor of The Clare Champion since August 2020. Former editor of The Clare People, he is a journalism and communications graduate of Dublin Institute of Technology.