Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I just know he cannot be here this afternoon.

Everything is being done through private placements and special rehabilitation beds in long-term care centres to deal with the overcrowding in the area. As has been mentioned before, the Minister of State, Deputy Jim Daly, is confident the HSE will manage the situation effectively by taking immediate action and steps to address overcrowding. The HSE has assured the Department of Health that the situation is being constantly monitored and will be kept informed of developments in this regard. The HSE, in conjunction with Waterford general hospital, is in the process of reviewing existing units to assess long-term options to increase capacity.

I will bring Members’ concerns, as well as the serious allegations made, about the care of people in this hospital. There is an option for a Member to withdraw his or her Topical Issue matter if the Minister responsible is not available to take it. Unfortunately, I am not in a position to respond to some of the allegations made.

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