Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

I was abroad when the Taoiseach gave the interview. To be fair to the Deputy, I do not know whether she is quoting him out of context. However, the Taoiseach is more than aware of the difficulties and pressure in accident and emergency units. He may have been suggesting we should put matters in context, although that is not to justify what happens from time to time — on too many occasions.

Each day, approximately 4,000 people present at accident and emergency units. Even on the worst days — there was a very bad day two weeks ago — fewer than 10% of those who presented were on a trolley overnight, although that figure is still far too high. All our efforts are focused on finding alternatives, particularly for those who have been medically discharged from the acute phase to better settings — they are better for a host of reasons — and improving access to diagnostic facilities. Work is underway in that regard, although the facilities have not been put in place. We have gone to tender with regard to improved primary care, particularly on the north side of Dublin, as this is an issue which is placing huge pressure on some of the hospitals on the north side of the city.

I assure the Deputy that the Taoiseach is very sensitive to the difficulties being experienced by too many patients at accident and emergency level in some of our hospitals.

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