BANTRY Hospital’s new endoscopy rooms facility could soon grow to two rooms amid plans that would see the West Cork facility become a regional hub for the procedure.

The HSE is also making a provision to expand geriatric/general internal medicine at the hospital.

As part of its plans to develop services, the HSE is looking to expand of new Endoscopy Rooms facility from one room to two rooms each, operating a minimum of five days per week.

Welcoming the news, Minister of State Christopher O’Sullivan said: ‘This government recognises the importance of Bantry hospital to the region now, and into the future. Bantry Hospital’s ongoing expansion and improving its ability to better serve West Cork and surrounding regions remains a top priority.

‘I want to thank the Minister for Health for keeping me up-to-date with her discussions with the HSE. Strengthening Bantry Hospital is vital to the future health of West Cork.’

The HSE is also making provision for the expansion of geriatric/general internal medicine at the Hospital, which it describes as a key dependency in the overall patient flow system.

The HSE is also exploring the availability of Bantry as a Regional Service for Endoscopy, to be partnered with other locations in the South West.

Its €8m endoscopy unit officially opened late last year but had been in operation for some time.

Last month the hospital was allocated €1,122,800 under the HSE’s Building and Equipment Capital plan for 2026.

The funding will go towards adding 24 acute inpatient beds and 12 stroke rehabilitation beds. An additional €56,140 was allocated for a pathway for ambulance admissions.