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

Absolutely. I reiterate the Government's commitment to ensure that this happens. I take the Deputy's point about having to crisscross the country and also the unique local issues in Macroom. He mentioned the urban disadvantaged areas and rural areas. The issue of an out-of-hours cover rota of one in seven has to be dealt with also. I accept the Deputy's argument on the unique local issues in Macroom.

On the GP service in Macroom, I assure the Deputy that the Minister, the HSE and I are committed to working with the local GPs in the area to resolve the current difficulties to ensure that services can continue to be provided to the local community. I strongly believe in having local services in communities. The example given by the Deputy of one of his constituents having to travel to and from Kildare for a service is unacceptable. I am aware the Acting Chairman, Deputy Durkan, is a prominent TD in Kildare. I accept the Deputy's point that it is unacceptable that situation has arisen. The HSE is trying very hard to fill the positions. We have to make this a priority. I will raise the Deputy's concerns with the Minister, Deputy Harris, and the HSE.

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