Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour) | Oireachtas source

This is a unique moment since I agree with Deputy McGrath from County Tipperary. It is probably a first. We have been well aware of health issues in recent months, especially with regard to emergency departments.

This is an incredible story. It goes back 20 years to agreements on a new role for this hospital. I visited the hospital with the Minister for Health. The committee should know that there was not one patient in the building. It is not simply a question of where the €7 million went. It is a case of what it is being used for and what it will be used for. All the while South Tipperary General Hospital remains one of the most over-crowded hospitals. We should write to the HSE on the matter. I would be surprised if we do not bring them in to explain not only the capital differential but the question of value for money with regard to what the hospital is being used for.