Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The second point has some validity and I have answered on this issue previously. As far as the hospitals of Monaghan, Cavan, Drogheda and Dundalk are concerned, for many years we have heard different people on the health boards as well as Members from all sides of this House talk about the issues, debates and occasionally arguments pertaining to that region. People have argued for their own hospital and area and about how the issue should best be handled. As far as policy is concerned and as to how Professor Drumm, his colleagues, the Tánaiste and I want to get services right in that region, I am sure the Deputy has heard what Professor Drumm and others have said about this issue in the past. We have also heard what the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland has to say.

Some people have asked why the Royal College of Surgeons should have a role in dictating such issues. From a policy base, someone must make professional assessments as to what is the best way to give treatment to patients in an area, to have the units properly staffed with surgical and medical consultants, with backup ICU beds——

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