Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is unfortunate that there is no Minister here to represent the Department of Health because many of the questions this morning are directed to that Department. A Programme for a Partnership Government included a commitment to reduce waiting lists and trolley queues. Yesterday there were 600 patients on hospital trolleys, most of whom were elderly people with complex needs. There were 80 patients waiting on hospital trolleys in University Hospital Limerick. Emergency measures are needed to address the specific and unique issues in Limerick. Deputy Kelly referred to the unique structural difficulties. There has been disproportionate underinvestment at Limerick University Hospital - by a figure of 20% - compared to other model four hospitals. As the Minister said, we cannot wait for the winter initiative to address these issues because it will not kick in for three months. I ask the Minister to pass on four requests to the Minister for Health. There is a need for a lifting of the embargo on nurse recruitment at University Hospital Limerick. There is a need for immediate provision of a second MRI scanner in Limerick which is absolutely essential to allow patients to flow freely through the hospital. There is a need for an immediate release of funds for short and long-term step-down facilities. The Minister also needs to address the consultant manpower deficiency that is slowing down the health service.

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