James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

I will take the contribution from the Deputy in the spirit in which it is offered. There is a plan and I have outlined some of it to the Deputy. It is being implemented and must be given time to work. If we are not achieving the desired effect when we review it a number of weeks hence, we will take further initiatives. The plan covers much of what the Deputy has mentioned. Beds have been opened in Louth County Hospital and Navan hospital to relieve the pressure in Drogheda. All these issues have been addressed. In addition, eight beds within the hospital have been opened. These things are happening and we must give them time to take effect. We will keep the matter under active and close review.

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