Mr. Robert Watt:

It is a service that we are acutely aware is not performing as well as we would like, with patients waiting an excessive amount of time. There was an increase in activity in 2022 and 2023 and a further increase this year. The Minister has ring-fenced €19 million in additional spending, which is leading to more theatres being open, more staff being allocated and an increase in activity. A spinal task force group has been set up in the management unit within CHI to drive the changes and reforms needed. It is a service which we are acutely aware needs to get better but there are various elements in place in that regard. I will ask Ms Kenna to add to what I have just said.