Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The issue of maternity services must be addressed. We all accept that the national review is ongoing but in the meantime we are reduced here to arguing about whether the ratio is 1:48 or 1:55 in the Midlands Regional Hospital. The bottom line is that whether the ratio is 1:48 or 1:55, it is still too high. That issue must be addressed. I do not mind being slightly inaccurate but the Minister must also acknowledge that a ratio of 1:48 is unacceptable by any standard.

The recruitment embargo is a blunt instrument. We need a change in policy in the context of front-line services. Rather than the HSE seeking permission to appoint on a one-on-one basis, there should be a policy reversal in key areas to ensure the safe delivery of services.

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