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

It must be acknowledged that attendances at emergency departments are growing year on year and that the health service capacity review indicates that Ireland has among the highest rates of acute bed occupancy in the developed world.

It is widely agreed that additional beds are a key part of the solution for Limerick. Over the past two winters, an additional 25 beds were opened in Limerick, including eight beds as part of the winter plan 2018-19. The new emergency department which opened in May 2017 provides a modern, safe and fit-for-purpose facilities that meet the expectations of patients and their families while providing high quality accommodation that better protects privacy and dignity. In addition, the new 60-bed ward was established to provide a rapid-build interim solution to the bed capacity issue at University Hospital Limerick and in response to the health service capacity review by the Department. The UL Hospitals Group welcomed the commitment in Project Ireland 2040 to build a 96-bed ward block over the current emergency department. A design team has been appointed to the project.

Improving timely access for patients is at the heart of Sláintecare. Building upon the progress made in this area in recent years, the Sláintecare action plan 2019 published by the Department includes a specific work stream on access and waiting lists. In addition, many of the other service reforms and enhancements in the action plan will support timely access to care for patients in the coming years. Progress has been made in implementing the Sláintecare action plan this year.

All Members acknowledge that the challenges faced in this area are significant. However, it is my firm belief that we all want patient-centred, evidence-based, results-focused and sustainable solutions to the challenges currently facing our health services.

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