Call for KDOC to set up in South Kildare 

Residents of South Kildare are still facing up to a 80km (50ml) round trip if they have to access medical care through KDOC, the nearest of which is based in Naas.

Cllr Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh, the Sinn Féin candidate for the upcoming election in the constituency has chosen to raise this concern.

“This is raising critical concerns regarding the significant barriers families face in accessing the KDOC services, “ she said.

“The round trip to Naas has become a daunting challenge for many. After meeting with numerous families, it’s evident that the current arrangement is unsustainable."

Families have identified several viable locations, especially in Athy, but including Monasterevin, Kildare Town, and even Castledermot here KDOC services could effectively operate.

“By establishing local service points, we can significantly reduce travel times and improve health outcomes,” cllr Ní Raghallaigh emphasised.

“The management of the KDOC must honour commitments made before the last local elections and explore options for setting up in local primary care facilities or other accessible buildings in Athy.

“The impact of the current service limitations is particularly severe for families with limited transport options. What are families supposed to do when they have no means of getting to the KDOC? 

“Relying on taxis is not a feasible solution due to exorbitant costs,” she continued. "As a mother and a committed Sinn Féin activist, I believe there are cost-neutral solutions available that would benefit our community greatly.”