Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)

We never measured the lists in that manner, so we must compare like with like. When the NTPF was established a few years ago, there were over 30,000 people waiting over three months and now that list is below 20,000.

Clinical leads have recently been appointed by Dr. White to devise appropriate clinical pathways for patients, particularly in respect of access to appropriate outpatient appointments. Many of these patients end up being admitted to hospital through accident and emergency more ill than they otherwise might be, due to delays or inappropriate referrals. A great deal of work - I understand the Deputy has been briefed on many of these initiatives - has been under way in the HSE over recent months. Some highly respected clinical leaders have been appointed and they are making substantial progress. I expect to see the fruits of their new work early next year in regard to waiting times for outpatient and other appointments.

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