Jillian van Turnhout (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I also extend a welcome to the witnesses. I will not repeat the comments of my colleagues, Deputies Kelleher and Ó Caoláin, other than to agree and to declare an interest. I was born in Mount Carmel myself and had my tonsils out there. Consequently, I have had some experience of the facilities. However, as stated by my colleagues, the manner in which this decision was communicated is a subject of concern and I certainly have taken note of the INMO's recommendations. Mr. McAnenly raised some really valid issues and in addition to Deputy Ó Caoláin's questions about the staffing, what arrangements are in place? Are arrangements in place for transferring or picking up on expertise? As I have heard different communications, it would be really useful for the joint committee to have clarity in this regard. Another question that has not been raised previously pertains to the hospital's current infrastructure and facilities. At what level are the facilities? Did the hospital need a major overhaul or are these facilities fully operational? I seek to understand what is the infrastructure that has been left there. I again refer to the manner in which the news was communicated to the local area, the staff and to everyone concerned. I cannot imagine what the week in question was like for those who were pregnant and had been booked in to attend Mount Carmel. I thank the witnesses for their attendance today and certainly look forward to hearing their answers.