by Maximiliano Crocamo
Interviews: Francesco Russo, Vice-President of the Regional Council of Friuli-Venezia Giulia and regional councilor (PD, Democratic Party); Giulia Massolino, councillor for the FVG civil autonomy pact
Regional opposition councilors and healthcare professionals raised concerns about delays, hospital conditions and the future of the redevelopment project at a press conference in Trieste.
The ongoing redevelopment of Cattinara Hospital was the focus of a press conference held Friday, November 6, at Caffè San Marco, where regional opposition representatives and healthcare professionals called for a reassessment of the project after nine years of construction.
Walter Zalukar, former head of the 118 emergency service, raised concerns about the impact of prolonged construction on patients and staff. He advocated for more single-patient rooms and greater family access, citing infection prevention, privacy and patient well-being as priorities in modern hospital design.
Engineer Francesco Cervesi, a Terzo Polo candidate for mayor of Trieste, argued that the existing redevelopment plans no longer reflect current healthcare and construction standards. He proposed appointing a commissioner to oversee the project, updating its technical plans and dividing future works into smaller contracts.
Francesco Russo, vice-president of the Regional Council and a Democratic Party representative, criticized the regional administration led by Governor Massimiliano Fedriga, citing what he described as insufficient transparency and a lack of consultation with healthcare workers, unions and residents.
Giulia Massolino, regional councilor for Patto per l’Autonomia, also questioned the progress of the project and called for funding to improve temporary access routes for patients and hospital staff. She said she may submit another amendment during the upcoming regional budget discussions.
The speakers urged the regional government and the Giuliano Isontina University Health Authority (ASUGI) to clarify the project’s next steps and reconsider aspects of the redevelopment.
The concerns and proposals presented at the conference reflect the positions of opposition representatives and invited speakers. The regional administration’s response was not included in the information provided.
