Catherine Ardagh (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses very much for all their contributions. My first question is for Ms Clyne. Ms Clyne has said that GPs need a lot of help establishing themselves. Obviously it is a huge question, but generally what is Ms Clyne's view on GPs being employed directly by the State? I am aware that a lot of young GPs do not want to pay rent, rates and staff. I know it is a very wide question.

My second question is to Professor Irvine on the many people not attending their physicians at this stage because of Covid, and waiting until afterwards with any ailments they may have. In light of the huge waiting lists outlined in his submission, how worried are his members?

My third question is to Ms Ní Sheaghdha, and follows on from Deputy John Lahart's suggestion on childcare. Ms Ní Sheaghdha said that in London designated schools and crèches are being kept open to facilitate front-line workers in the event that crèches and schools are closed. Is that a particular request of the INMO? Deputy Lahart suggested that we could bring this to the parliamentary party meeting tonight, and directly to the Taoiseach and the Minister. Perhaps I could have Ms Ní Sheaghdha's view on that also.