Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the Chair allowing me in as I am not a member of the committee. I am seeking updates on the delivery of a number of things for this year in respect of yesterday's online meeting. We were given the opportunity to discuss ongoing issues at UHL with the new regional health executive officer, Sandra Broderick. I was happy to attend and I wish Ms Broderick the very best in her role. My first question is about revenue to provide the first 96-bed block at UHL. Where are we in terms of capital and revenue for the second 96-bed block at UHL? By extension, 48 of the beds in the 96-bed block are to replace existing nightingale beds, which are not HIQA compliant. Can something be done to maintain and extend the lifespan of those wards rather than just decommissioning them? Four new respite disability houses are needed to support children with complex needs and families. It was mentioned in yesterday's meeting that families who do not have access to necessary respite services are presenting to the emergency department, which is concerning.

In a meeting of this committee before Christmas, Colm Henry told me that extending injury unit hours later into the evening would not make a material difference to presentations at the UHL emergency department. I refute that, considering the high volumes currently presenting at LIUs. It was quite rightly pointed out that a lot of people are still not aware that they exist or whether they can attend the LIU rather than the MAU, for example. The Minister responded to that fact and a leaflet drop will be done. How many people were sitting in an overcrowded accident and emergency department in Limerick all night who were just looking for a patch up or to be looked after following an injury at football training, for example. We voted in the Dáil on a motion to extend the hours. Will the Minister comment on where we are in that regard?

Will the Minister provide an update on the tender process for the satellite haemodialysis unit at Ennis Hospital? It affects around 300 people in County Clare. Are funds available for that to be delivered this year? The Minister mentioned the delivery of the surgical hub at the Scoil Carmel site in Limerick. Currently, theatres in UHL are running at 125% capacity, which is a major concern. Are there any updates on that situation? Are there plans to expand services like stroke, coronary or cancer care at Ennis Hospital in the future?