Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)

I wish to seek the adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 31 to raise a matter of national importance, namely, the proposed transfer of patients and services of St. Lukes Hospital, Rathgar, to St. James Hospital on an incremental basis to conclude in 2011. The loss to patients of support buildings and services that were built up by cancer survivors or families of former patients over a period of decades is a blow to those who wish to create a less stressful environment for patients. It is difficult to understand the referral of 20,000 additional patients to St. James's Hospital, which is currently overstretched and for which additional clinical staff, although sought, have not been provided. The Minister for Health and Children should outline the rationale for such a radical move given the proven track record of this hospital.

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