Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I am keen to identify whether things can be done in the short to medium term that do not necessarily involve big building projects. Such projects also have to go ahead, but what can be done in the short to medium term to improve the situation. I am trying to identify if there are issues there. Dr. Kilgallen has identified problems with theatre staff. There may also be organisational issues within hospitals.

I also want to raise the issue of diagnostics. Several of our visitors have referred to this. What can be done in the short to medium term to improve access to diagnostics? Dr. Colleran said that buying services in from the private sector has not been that successful. Are there proposals in this regard? Perhaps Dr. McCauley will respond followed by Dr. Colleran.