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

I thank Deputy Heydon and accept his point regarding the pressure on our GP services, which we must deal with. We had some difficult times during the past seven or eight years when there has not been enough investment in the health services. I take that point. Under the programme for Government, we intend to rebuild and invest in our health services. As part of that development, increasing the number of GPs will be major part of our strategy. GPs play a major role in providing community medical services and they assist in relieving the pressure on emergency departments in hospitals as well.

I stated earlier that the development of the GP services was not designed along county boundaries. The Deputy has real concerns about this issue and spoke about Castledermot, Newbridge and Kilcullen. I will bring his views back to the Minister, Deputy Harris. If there are gaps in GP services in individual counties such as Kildare, they should be dealt with. I give a commitment that I will deliver that strong message to the Minister. I am strongly supportive of developing GP services, whether they are in Kildare or other counties. I stated earlier that we have prioritised disadvantaged areas but that is another day's work. I will commit to do my best to expand and develop those GP services.

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