Ms Magdalen Rogers:

I am conscious that we unfortunately do not have the national clinical programme in neurology here to respond to that. I can only speak to what patients have told us. We do not speak for neurologists. We are aware the neurology services make every effort to ensure safe care and that people are seen when they need to be seen. We have spoken to patients and clinicians on the ground who would be aware of this issue and of the travel and stress involved for people. As the Senator says, if it is a choice between having a patient travel a long journey for regular care, that of course has to come into the clinician's decision. Again, I am not speaking for neurologists or the neurology clinical programme, but it makes sense that if you have a patient travelling a long journey you will try to minimise that journey. Having a service closer to home would be better practice and more in line with the model of care for neurology that recommends that service in all model 3 hospitals, and also Sláintecare with having the right care in the right place at the right time.