Mr. Bernard Gloster:

We would do it through the GP co-op, which would deploy a doctor for us. Based on the model the regional executive officer is proposing, we should see that making a difference. We know that a substantial number of people, amounting to over 50% of those who present to the emergency department in Limerick, do so without a GP referral. That is not to say they do not need to come to hospital; many of them do. I do not wish to say it is a fault of the public but I think a GP at the front door will be one of several measures that will help Limerick. I am hoping to finalise a full scale of additional interventions with the Minister in the next couple of days and subject to that, we will be showing the continued support of Limerick while they are waiting on the 96 beds to come on stream. I am saying categorically, however, that part of the solution in Limerick is reform of how the hospital works, particularly at weekends.