Farrell appointed chairperson of HSE Forum

Westmeath Councillor Tom Farrell has been elected chairperson of the HSE Dublin and Midlands Regional Health Forum.

The Fine Gael elected representative, who was appointed to the role at the Forum's Annual General Meeting, will replace outgoing chairperson Cllr Frankie Keena, who served the position over the past year.

The HSE Dublin and Midlands Regional Health Forum is a committee where local councillors and community representatives meet directly with senior HSE management to discuss and give feedback on healthcare services.

Cllr Farrell will be supported in his role by Offaly Councillor Eddie Fitzpatrick who was appointed vice-chairperson at the AGM.

During the meeting, members and HSE officials recognised Cllr Keena's commitment, leadership and constructive engagement throughout his tenure as chairperson.

Cllr Keena thanked fellow members, the HSE leadership team, Integrated Healthcare Area management teams and administrative staff for their support during his term in the role.

The newly elected chairperson thanked Cllr Keena for his service in the role and said he looked forward to working collaboratively with Forum members and the HSE in the year ahead.

Kate Kileen White, Regional Executive Officer, HSE Dublin and Midlands, congratulated Cllr Farrell on his appointment as Forum chairperson, looking forward to a year of "strengthening engagement".

"The HSE Dublin and Midlands looks forward to strengthening engagement with our elected members and progress improvements to deliver high-quality, accessible healthcare services for the region's population of over one million people," Ms Kileen White said.