Ms Colette Cowan:

We were disappointed that planning permission for the move of the outpatient clinic was turned down, because it is a core need for the service. We have gone back to the table to revamp it and reapply for planning to try to get it over the line. It is of exceptional importance. The current outpatient clinic is small, and we cannot get consultants to move there.

With regard to the theatres, we are focusing on the model 2 hospitals as part of our new strategy document around transforming. The ophthalmology centre in Nenagh Hospital is one example. We have worked with Ennis Hospital on developing the ear, nose and throat, ENT, service. A new consultant will be commencing in the autumn who will operate and develop the ENT service in Ennis. This will address the waiting list problem facing ENT services in the area. That will be the first step for Ennis Hospital. We have some work to do regarding the bowel screening programme there as well. Ennis Hospital is the only hospital in our group that provides a bowel screening service.