Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

On the first question, we discussed the results of the exercise in Youghal, which was code-named "Blackwater". By and large, it was very successful. Without going into too much detail, I can state there were some glitches pointing to a few areas where there is room for improvement. We are examining these. The purpose of such exercises is to determine what weaknesses exist in the system. The glitches did not concern accident and emergency units. I have asked the task force to create a schedule for the exercises planned for the next 12 months. I should have this shortly and will communicate it to Members, if that is satisfactory.

I am glad Deputy Gormley mentioned the report referring to my role. It reminds me that an article in The Irish Times made a number of critical suggestions in this regard. In the interests of transparency, I offered to write an article in response but The Irish Times did not see fit to accept it. I do not know why.

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