Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I hope there was never any question of closing the accident and emergency department. There has been huge investment in the hospital over the years in cardiology, respiratory, geriatric, rehabilitation and endoscopy services. The Taoiseach has confirmed the closure of 12 surgical beds. Yet, only a few weeks ago Ministers told people existing services would be retained and that they welcomed the assurances in that regard. Deputies Varadkar and Burton made such comments.

Only seven months ago the Taoiseach said he had all the answers to problems in accident and emergency departments and that they would be delivered on by the end of this year. There was no small print attached to his commitments. The only difference between now and then in terms of the public finances is that they are better than projected and ahead of target. Ministers, candidates and canvassers are handing out information on specific promises to protect services in hospital but on the floor of the House the Taoiseach confirmed 12 surgical beds will be closed and other beds will be closed for five weeks. He described temporary closures of two weeks and three weeks-----

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