Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

Considering the burgeoning population of south Dublin and the outer regions, for which Tallaght Hospital currently caters, and the investment in the construction of the facility, it is a false economy to close the hospital from 12 midnight to 8 a.m. daily. There may be serious night-time emergencies for children and the proximity of the hospital can be crucial in saving the life of a child. If consultants indicate it is crucial that this facility be provided in Tallaght, it is just as relevant, in the context of access, travel and the major young population in the vicinity, that the facility be open 24/7. It is a waste of that resource to close it at midnight and it places lives at risk.

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