Mr. Sean Egan:

We are not currently represented on the task force. As a regulator, it is important that we maintain an independent role as an entity that monitors from the side. We have the powers and abilities to intervene with regard to inspection in any service at any time. That is an important function which we serve in the public interest.

The Deputy mentioned the chief officer piece. I completely agree with him that it is important to look not just at acute services in the context of understanding and addressing the issues of overcrowding. Our Overview Report from last year highlighted the importance of having an end-to-end approach to the provision of services in order that patients who do not need to be treated in an acute setting can be treated in a more appropriate setting in the community and that there should be an ability to step down from acute services for patients who finish their acute period of care.

If we look at the follow-up inspection we did in University Hospital Limerick early this year, we took a very broad view of services in the regions to gain a full understanding. We met with the chief officer in that region together with management staff. Importantly, we also met with local GPs to gain an understanding from them with regard to where things are and the capacity challenges they have. There certainly was learning, and we have reflected that in the report. As we proceed further, the ability to look at things end to end can be enhanced through our inspection approach.