Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

There is a serious issue of geography here. Does the Minister think it is acceptable that someone in need of medical treatment in, for example, Loop Head in County Clare or in Latteragh in County Tipperary, must not only drive past a hospital, but will also have a greater chance of dying if they have a major medical emergency because UHL is so overstretched and overcrowded? There is a geography issue there in the context of the distance that must be travelled. This is further grounds for designating one of the other hospitals as a level 3. Does the Minister accept that?