Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I welcome the motion, many aspects of which I agree with. I thank Sinn Féin for bringing forward its argument in a measured and cohesive manner, which is how it should be done. Anger will not get us out of the situation in which we find ourselves. I fully understand the concerns and anger of the people of counties Roscommon and Leitrim and other parts of the country who like me are proud of their hospital and the important role it continues to play in the community. The confusion and uncertainty about services, primarily created by the Health Service Executive, have not been helpful.

My family, friends and others I know have relied on Roscommon County Hospital in time of need. I assure the people of counties Roscommon and Leitrim that will not change. Like my constituency colleague, Deputy Naughten, I gave a commitment in good faith before the general election that I would stand by the hospital and safeguard its services. However, events have overtaken that commitment, including the Health Information and Quality Authority report, the Mallow report and the position on junior hospital doctors. I am sincerely sorry that I cannot stand by that commitment. However, I am doing everything possible to live up to my commitment.

The changes being made at Roscommon County Hospital are not ideal for local people. The vast majority want the services currently available at the hospital to continue. I am sure everyone in Roscommon wants to ensure the safest levels of health care are provided at the hospital.

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