João Matias explained that construction work at the Bom Samaritano home began earlier this week, focusing on the removal of damaged materials and cleaning the area in preparation for painting the building and replacing materials.
“There were beds that were damaged and will need replacement. The security and communication system also suffered damage and will have to be replaced,” he stated.
The provider for the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Mirandela noted that the repairs will cost over 100,000 euros. Should external funding not be available, the costs will be entirely borne by the institution.
“The work must progress and the issue must be resolved,” he asserted.
João Matias further indicated that the expected duration for the repairs is 60 days. However, the company responsible for the renovation informed them that it might conclude earlier than scheduled.
While avoiding definitive promises, the provider expressed a hope for the home’s reopening within this year. “At worst, it will reopen early next year,” he acknowledged.
On August 16, a fire, believed to have started from an anti-decubitus mattress, resulted in the immediate death of six elderly residents, with three perishing in the blaze and three succumbing to smoke inhalation. Another resident later died from severe injuries sustained.
The fire led to the destruction of part of the Bom Samaritano building, which had accommodated 89 residents, preventing its reopening.
The affected seniors were relocated to other care homes managed by the Mirandela Misericórdia as well as other local institutions, where they remain until the home resumes operations.
In light of the situation, João Matias emphasized the “utmost importance” of the home’s rehabilitation. “These residents, now in temporary arrangements, are not in ideal conditions; they are in makeshift settings. We urgently need the renovations completed,” he concluded.
The Judicial Police have taken over the investigation, with the case referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
The investigation remains ongoing.
