Anthony Lawlor (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I think the Minister of State and welcome her response. As far as most people in Kildare are concerned, the point is to have a safe hospital and while this is the case, the members of staff there are under extreme pressure. One thing that can be degrading for those staff members is to hear each morning on the local radio station the number of people on trolleys. I am aware of how hard they are working and I understand what they are going through at present. While I welcome the additional staff, I note many of them are replacement staff and additional staff are needed. As I already pointed out, the area's demographics are changing as its population increases and there is additional pressure on the hospital itself. While the additional staff members are welcome, I will push constantly for additional funding and staff for the hospital because, as stated earlier, it is a focal point for the entire county. Naas General Hospital is associated with the entire county because it is situated right in the centre and I reiterate that the staff, who are working under considerable pressure at present, consider that additional staff members are required there.

See this speech in context