Danny Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am glad to have the opportunity to talk about this issue, but in the couple of minutes I have I cannot cover what I should be covering. The people working in the accident and emergency department of University Hospital Kerry in Tralee have to be complimented. Oireachtas Members had a meeting with officials from the HSE a couple of weeks ago and I highlighted the fact that people in Tralee who have letters from doctors stating that they need X-rays still have to go through the accident and emergency department despite the fact that GPs have told me they should not have to do that. This policy is clogging up the system. People aged 92, 93 and 94 years of age are waiting on trolleys in the accident and emergency department for hours and hours. Many go home without being seen.

I have highlighted the need to fully open Kenmare Community Hospital. For the minute I have available to me, I would be very grateful if the Minister would listen, but he does not want to listen.

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