Professor Colette Cowan:

I thank the Senator for his question and his acknowledgement of the people here who are committed to the service. Regarding the HIQA inspection, HIQA can inspect any facility. Its visit on the day was unannounced, which is correct and right. It chose to visit our emergency department because of the numerous instances of overcrowding figures cited in the media at the time. HIQA did so in the run up to a bank holiday weekend. Its visit was unexpected and we took the report.

We have been proactive for years and have raised repeatedly the issues regarding the growing demand in the region and attendances at our emergency department. The flow is directed there. Extensive work has been done and there has been funding from the Government for community healthcare and the development of those services, which is in its infancy. The Minister took the decision to send in the performance management unit. We have worked closely with the special delivery unit. During my eight years of tenure in UHL, a lot of developments and new staff were put in place and it is a progressive development. What I will do is hand over to-----