Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I can hear that Deputy Harty is concerned as any of us would be. However, I am advised that, based on the unannounced HIQA reports, the hospital has put in place the recommendations I outlined earlier. I will certainly bring the Deputy’s suggestion that there be an independent report to HIQA and the Minister and see what can be done.

The Deputy has put his finger on the bigger global picture in that this is not just an issue for one hospital in this country; AMR is of global concern. Those of us who have been a few decades on this planet can recall that 20 years ago we were given an antibiotic for a cold. Over-prescription of antibiotics has brought us to this situation globally. The HSE’s website www.undertheweather.ieis a great resource. It is well worth people’s while to look at it.

The HIQA report, which is a review of the antimicrobial stewardship in public acute hospitals, found that overall a progressive approach is being taken in the hospitals. I will certainly raise the matter at higher levels.

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