Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister, the Ministers of State, Deputies O'Donnell, Butler and Murnane O'Connor, and their officials. It is great to have them here. University Hospital Kerry is the county hospital in my county. We want to give the best possible service to the people of Kerry. In regard to the accident and emergency department, no different from any other such department, we too have huge issues with patients waiting for days in the waiting room and on trolleys. I understand that there are additional beds in train. I believe an entire new block of beds is required. Can I get an update on that? Hospital management have told me that is what is required to address the accident and emergency crisis in Kerry.

Regarding the maternity unit, it is a long way from the theatre. This brings its own health issues to both mother and baby. What measures have been taken to address that? On the topic of occupational therapists, physiotherapists, nursing staff, etc., what is the position regarding contracts? Is the embargo still in place?