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

Of course, we accept the Deputy's point. He is correct that the Minister, Deputy Harris, brought the bed capacity review plan to the Cabinet today. There was very strong support for it because we accept there is a need to invest in extra beds, particularly in 2018 and 2019. However, there is also a historical issue here. Before our time in Government, the accident and emergency departments in Ennis and Nenagh were closed. This was part of creating a logjam in the system. I accept the Deputy's argument that extra new beds are needed, and we are determined to provide them. The Minister is committed to action.

With regard to the specific issues in Limerick hospital, the Minister has been in direct contact with the director general of the HSE, the CEO of the hospital group, the group clinical director and the head of the HSE special delivery unit. I am optimistic that action will be taken. We must ensure that people are no longer left of trolleys. As regards the funding issues, I will raise them with the Minister, Deputy Harris, and we will refer back to the Deputy with a further detailed response.

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