Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses. That is my question. Most people accept there will be a need to have another model 3 or model 4 hospital in the mid-west if the population continues to increase, etc. In the meantime, however, it is a question of what is safe or what can be done in the short term to improve a dire situation. I think Noeleen has answered this question. Even if it is not possible to have an accident and emergency department in Ennis Hospital, many of the facilities can be provided there. If Ennis, Nenagh or St. John's were properly equipped and resourced, dealing with people in those hospitals would save many people having to go to the accident and emergency department in UHL.