Mr. Gerard O'Callaghan:

There is no doubt that serious investment in Cork University Hospital would be required. At the moment, we are looking at developing a helipad on the grounds of the hospital as part of an overall plan to improve the situation there. As Dr. Healy has said, no decision has been taken with regard to the other hospital at this stage. I reiterate that the creation of an elective hospital in Cork has made a significant difference for people on waiting lists, etc. There are no cancellations. All the orthopaedic work and all the ear, nose, throat, head and neck surgery is being done at the elective hospital. Between 8,000 and 9,000 day cases were being done at this hospital ten years ago, but over 30,000 day cases are being done there now. The creation of an elective hospital has been a huge success. When we moved the orthopaedic service from its previous location, the average length of stay for someone having a hip or knee procedure was ten or 11 days. That was reduced to five days within 12 months. Huge efficiencies can be achieved when everything is moved to a single hospital.