Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I want to make one general point. The situation in UHL in Limerick is appalling. At times, it is out of control. The real problem we have there is that there is a lack of confidence among the public in entering the hospital. To balance it and to be fair, the response I get from people is that when they actually enter the system and they are treated, they are looked after exceptionally well and the outcomes are good. That needs to be said.

In relation to the measures that have been taken, the Minister has said the senior decision-makers are rostered on site, both in the emergency department and throughout the hospital after hours and at weekends. What progress has been made in relation to this? This is a big issue. We have a new consultant contract. How many consultants have signed up to this in Limerick? How does that compare with other hospitals around the country?

In relation to the medical assessment unit in Nenagh, I was told that would be open in mid-May. That has not happened. I am told there is now a dispute between SIPTU and the HSE. Could the Minister fill me in with regard to what is happening with that? When can we expect to see that medical assessment unit open 24-7 in Nenagh?

The daycare surgery in Nenagh is constantly issuing cancellations. That is causing huge hardship, concern and anxiety, in particular for older people who are waiting for surgical intervention. If that surgical intervention is delayed, that obviously results in the person deteriorating and they could end up in Limerick as an acute patient.