Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)

The capacity at Monaghan is to be increased through, for example, the development of additional respite and rehabilitation services. Enhancements in pre-hospital care in the Cavan-Monaghan area are also required.

Deputy Crawford referred to the position at Roscommon County Hospital. In the past, Roscommon County Hospital and Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, have operated independently, with two consultant general surgeons in each hospital. The difficulties faced by Roscommon and Portiuncula in maintaining surgical services independently, and the need for closer co-operation between them, were highlighted by the former Comhairle na nOspidéal in March 2006. Advances in clinical care and ever-increasing levels of specialisation mean the present model of care faces important practical difficulties, which must be addressed.

In the light of these factors, the best way of retaining and developing services in Roscommon and Portiuncula hospitals is for these hospitals to work closely together. The HSE has indicated it is proceeding with the proposal for a joint department of surgery and anaesthesia at Roscommon County Hospital and Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe. The establishment of a joint department of surgery already is in place in the Cavan-Monaghan hospital group and is operating very successfully. A joint department of emergency medicine is also in place and is operating across both hospitals.

See this speech in context