Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Stanley for asking this very important question. I will commence a consultation process, but I am going to get it right unlike the so-called consultation processes of the past that the people of the midlands and Portlaoise clearly felt, with some justifiable reason, have been inadequate in not listening or engaging with all of the appropriate stakeholders, including concerns I heard directly from clinicians. I was very grateful to have the opportunity to meet with Deputies Stanley and Fleming, and the Minister, Deputy Flanagan, as the three Laois Oireachtas representatives. I would be happy to do that again in the coming weeks.

I am committed to securing and further developing the role of the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise as a constituent hospital within the Dublin Midlands Hospital Group. Since 2014, the focus has been on supporting the hospital to develop and enhance management capability, implementing the changes required to address clinical service deficiencies and incorporating the hospital into the governance structures within the Dublin Midlands Hospital Group.

Significant work has been undertaken at the hospital. The Deputy is aware that we have increased funding by 35% since 2012 and staffing levels have risen by 29% from the 2014 base. Governance and management arrangements in Portlaoise hospital have been strengthened, additional clinical staff has been appointed and staff training, hospital culture and communications have improved.

HSE consultations took place with the clinical staff and management in Portlaoise hospital, general practitioners, the Irish Prison Service, Tallaght Hospital paediatric surgery and emergency department services and the Master of the Coombe Women and Infants' University Hospital. As agreed at a meeting with Laois Oireachtas Members, I am currently giving consideration to a process for wider consultation. I am not satisfied that the consultation in the past was comprehensive or inclusive. I have heard very clearly in this regard from GPs, from clinicians in the hospital and from the Laois Oireachtas Members on a cross-party basis. I assure the Deputy that no decision has been made by me or the Government around the draft plan for Portlaoise hospital. Before any such decision is made there needs to be a new consultation process that is inclusive, exhaustive, engaging and meaningful. I am trying to work out the absolutely best way of making that work for the people of Portlaoise. I will keep Deputy Stanley updated.

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