James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies for their contributions. Deputy Carey mentioned the risk of cross-infection. I am happy to report that we have the lowest incidence of MRSA in our hospitals now since records began.

I want to mention the model 2 hospitals. We need better use of these hospitals. This does not just mean using the beds in these hospitals, but that the staff working in these hospitals must co-operate and be part of the larger group and be prepared to work on different sites. We must not have a situation in which staff refuse to move from their own model 2 hospital. This is not acceptable.

I agree 100% with Deputy O'Donnell that we need to expedite the new accident and emergency unit and ensure it is opened as soon as possible. That is our goal.

My understanding, having spoken to the manager, is that there is no delay. There will be a seamless passage through. That said, the Deputy will receive a more comprehensive answer from the HSE tomorrow and I utterly respect his right to seek such on behalf of the people of Limerick. If there is anything else we can do to accelerate this, we will do it.

Deputy Breen made reference to "all five of us" but I would say "all six of us". We are all here to improve the situation. There are issues around how things are managed but I wish to put it on the record of the House that we have a very good manager in Limerick University Hospital group and we will be sorry to see her go. Her departure will be Cork's gain, or more specifically, Cork City Council.

Deputy McNamara said earlier that in the past it was all about money and now it is all about management. It is not all about any one thing but about everything. Regarding the case he mentioned, can I presume the woman was not waiting on a trolley for four days with a fractured hip?

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