Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The GP service has gathered together to form a co-operative which will provide a call-in centre based in the outpatient department of the hospital and this will operate from 6 p.m. until 9 a.m. The GPs will also provide their own roster for Saturdays and weekends, as heretofore. The vast majority of the treatments that have been provided in Roscommon hospital to good effect over the years will continue.

From a medical safety perspective, the Minister has pointed out that people suffering from deep trauma, heart attack or stroke have a better chance of survival if they are brought to a high volume centre like Galway. He has confirmed that Roscommon will have four ambulances, with two based in Roscommon town and backed up by a rapid response vehicle with a team of trained paramedics and the advantage of a medical assessment unit. This is in the interest of patient safety. I am aware of the concerns, fears and anxieties that people have but I assure the Deputy that what I am describing is going to happen.

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