Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

We will ask the HSE specifically in respect of that matter and in respect of the issue raised by Deputy Carthy.

Moving on to point 8, and the vacant properties in Laois and Offaly, I note the replies sent back from the HSE in this correspondence in respect of the Portarlington Primary Care Centre are different to the replies that were given to a colleague in response to a recent parliamentary question. I ask that we seek clarification from the HSE in respect of the Newtown facility, where it is saying that it is not fit for the delivery of temporary health care and that discussions are ongoing with the local authorities. I ask that we get an update on that.

Portarlington Primary Care Centre relates to the correspondence where there was a different answer and where it states that the centre is under active consideration for future healthcare use. In the reply to a parliamentary question last week, or within the past ten days, it said otherwise. I ask that we seek clarification on these points.

I also seek clarification on the Erril health centre. These are the three matters I wish to raise out of the approximately ten in total. On the Erril one, it is stated that it is under practical consideration for healthcare use. I ask the HSE to give details of that and on the timelines for the refurbishment of those buildings because they have been lying empty for years. I have certainly received complaints about one of those buildings, in particular, from the local Tidy Towns committee. They cannot be left empty indefinitely because the longer the building is left vacant, the more it deteriorates. I am asking for a timeline from HSE estates in respect of that and to clarify the uses of these buildings.

Moving onto No. 1605, this correspondence is from Darragh O'Loughlin, CEO of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board, IHRB, dated 28 November. This provides the information which was requested by the committee arising from the meeting with Horse Racing Ireland and representatives from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on 22 September. It is proposed to note and publish this item of correspondence. Is that agreed? Agreed.

Deputy Carthy flagged this item. Does he wish to comment on it?