Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

Beaumont, indeed. The Deputy will understand that I do not go to Beaumont all that often, although I am happy to acknowledge the tremendous contribution that hospital has made to our health care services.

I want to make the case for Millbrook Lawns because it is currently going through the planning process and the site needs to be properly redeveloped. I hope to have the continued support of the Department and the Minister in seeking those facilities. There is a need to keep pace with requirements throughout my constituency and the region generally. Sick, vulnerable people who wish to access health services should be entitled to do so in proper facilities.

Where I came from in Crumlin, I remember looking at health centres that had not been upgraded for some years. The case for upgrading such facilities must be made when there is money in the economy to do so. I applaud the work of health board staff throughout the country and specifically in my own area in the Eastern Regional Health Authority which succeeded the Eastern Health Board. People make the point that there are too many staff but we should appreciate the great work they have done.

Like my colleagues in the House, I have had many dealings not only with hospital staff but also with those looking after medical card applications and the delivery of health services generally. I acknowledge the work they are doing and support them in their efforts.

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