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

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue. I agree with him that the trolley bay is effective but I also strongly agree with him that it is a temporary measure and not a long-term solution. I respect the fact that there is an issue regarding patients on trolleys and the Minister, Deputy Simon Harris, and myself would never find that acceptable. I give the Deputy a commitment that I will bring the issues he raised, particularly the bed capacity issue and the report indicating that 35 to 40 beds are urgently needed, to the attention of the Minister. I will follow up on that report and I will ask the Minister, Deputy Harris, about that issue. It is also important to realise that we have difficulties with staffing, nursing and other issues that are all out of our control. In the broader context of inpatient beds at South Tipperary General Hospital, I will convey all the Deputy's concerns to the Minister, Deputy Harris, and, hopefully, we will have action on them soon.

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