Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The issue of recruitment is a challenge in some of the bigger population areas like Galway city but it is an additional challenge, in some cases, although perhaps it should not be. One could argue that the cost of living may be somewhat reduced in some of the more rural areas in terms of living costs. Therefore, the package may be more attractive to recruit people. However, there are challenges certainly in Clifden and from what I understand from colleagues, in Belmullet as well, in terms of the district hospital. What can be done to incentivise or be able to better provide staff for these centres? We are talking about areas that are long distances from the next available beds, which would be in Merlin Park University Hospital.

There are costs and stress for families. At the public meeting that we had on Sunday, the local parish priest, Fr. James, spoke about the emotive issues surrounding the end of life and visiting somebody who is in their final hours. Having that person local to their family is important. It takes an hour and a half to travel the long distance from Clifden to Merlin Park.

Services in Clifden are hugely important. There is talk of international recruitment, etc. What can we do to better achieve placements for places such as Clifden that need nurses and physiotherapists?