Derek Nolan (Galway West, Labour)

I thank the Minister of State for her heartfelt response. As a member of a Government party, I support the strategy of diverting patients from acute hospitals, the most expensive facilities to treat patients, to primary care, which is more effective, efficient, local and trusted by members of the community. We are, however, a long way from achieving this objective. As such, I must raise the issue of 42 people on trolleys in Galway University Hospital who do not yet have access to the primary care service that is required.

The special delivery unit has been widely discussed. I understand from my discussions with representatives of Galway University Hospital that Dr. O'Connor visits the hospital every week and various changes are being made. What are the plans of the unit and what have been the results to date? The Minister took the initiative by asking the special delivery unit to write a report on the position in the Mid-Western Regional Hospital in Limerick. I ask the Minister of State to give a commitment on behalf of the Government that an investigation will be carried out and a report published into Galway University Hospital. Such an urgent response is warranted given that 42 patients were lying on trolleys in the hospital this morning.

I would be pleased to work with the Minister of State and Health Service Executive to facilitate the required shift from acute hospitals to primary care facilities. I will also discuss with her the local situation in Galway. This issue must be resolved urgently, especially given that the real blockage in accident and emergency departments starts in winter. It is not yet winter and already 42 people are on trolleys in Galway University Hospital. Will the Minister of State see to it that the special delivery unit produces a performance report for Galway University Hospital which will be presented to the Dáil?

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