Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)

It is very important that we explain clearly to the population of the mid-west what the changes will involve and the reasons for them. However, it is equally important that they are not misled as to their nature and purpose. It is sometimes alleged that the Government and the HSE want to "downgrade" smaller hospitals in order to save money. This is not so. It is in nobody's interest, least of all that of the people living in the mid-west and north Tipperary, that anybody should seek to perpetuate a configuration of acute hospital services which is not sustainable and which will not deliver the best health outcomes for patients.

I am a native of Nenagh; I was born in Nenagh hospital. I will not stand in defiance of professional opinion and the evidence-based policy to achieve greater patient safety. The nature of health service delivery is changing and the direction of future development is towards an increased proportion of diagnosis and treatment taking place on a day or outpatient basis. This is much more convenient for patients and their families as well as much more cost effective. Each of the acute hospitals in the region will continue to have a very significant role as parts of an integrated regional service.

This cannot be implemented without significant investment in Nenagh, Ennis and Limerick hospitals. This Government and Fianna Fáil-led Governments through the years have a history of investment in Nenagh hospital, from coronary care to the extension and to the expanded X-ray and accident and emergency unit.

See this speech in context