Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The Government is endeavouring to deal with the acute problems in hospitals as speedily as possible. In answer to Deputy Rabbitte's question I do not believe the nurses are protesting other than that they believe there is a problem. Approximately 1,000 nurses work in accident and emergency departments and they deal with the daily problems. The Government needs their goodwill in order to extend rosters and examine the situation during the busy periods. Consultant and others must be encouraged to work more. People do not get sick at particular hours but rather at all hours. These issues must be examined.

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