Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

I apologise for failing to deal with that aspect of Deputy Twomey's contribution. I visited the new accident and emergency facility in Cork. The reason it has not opened has nothing to do with the failure to make resources available but with logistical issues. A date has been set for the opening of the department to which I will ensure Deputy Boyle is invited. If memory serves me correctly, it will open on the morning of 7 April. I am subject to correction. Clearly, the facility will greatly improve services at Cork University Hospital. I also visited the new day bed unit at the hospital which will greatly enhance elective surgery services and alleviate pressure on the main hospital wards.

As the Deputy is aware, many initiatives are being undertaken at Cork University Hospital. It is not acceptable that as an accident and emergency service a department should be closed for even half an hour, never mind a number of hours. It is not a sustainable scenario or one over which anybody could stand.

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