Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Minister's response shows that it is a national emergency and crisis. It also shows the priorities of this Government. Intelligent people can plan for the seasonal problem issue and the cold winters. There will be times when there are build-ups, but there can be a long-term plan and a crisis or emergency plan put in place. As Deputy Kelleher said, there is the wrong patient in the wrong bed syndrome. Liam Duffy said that during the week with regard to the 100 beds in his hospital. The patients should be placed in proper nursing home care environments or be given home care packages.

The catchment area of Beaumont Hospital on the north side has an older population with many senior citizens. Also, last August the Minister was warned by people who work in the front-line services that a crisis was coming down the line. I urge the Minister to focus on this issue and to get his priorities right.

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