Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I take on board the point about that area and how that population base is increasing once again. This is a significant issue and although Naas General Hospital will become part of a bigger group, I do not believe this will deliver the type of solution that is needed. Perhaps consideration should be given to a broader solution in terms of extending the hospital. I always find that once a building comes in and begins to be developed, additional staff always follow. Clearly, however, there is a need to examine the population base and the rate of growth. This area always has been fast growing and while there was a little bit of a dip for a while, it is coming back. Perhaps this requires more than simply staff, even though staff members are of crucial importance. Perhaps it will be necessary to take a broader look at what is needed there.

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