Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I hear the frustration in the Deputy's voice and appreciate that this frustrates him as a local representative. From the perspective of the Government and the Minister, Deputy Harris, there is a 15% increase in next year's capital budget. I know these figures are not of significant interest to people but the reality is that there is an increase of €102 million.

There is additional capacity but there are also additional competing demands for that capital budget. The Deputy, like any good representative, is right to fight tooth and nail. He has been very consistent and I want to commend him. I have discussed this with him in the House previously and I acknowledge his consistent and constructive approach to trying to get it delivered for his area, as is his right. I am glad the people he represents have his voice to do that.

I can hear the Deputy's frustration. However, the Minister, Deputy Harris, does not have any direct involvement at this stage. It is the HSE which will submit a capital plan to the Minister for 2020 and it is a matter for the HSE as to whether this is going to be in that plan. If the Deputy sends the details to the Minister's office requesting that meeting, I will ask the Minister to request the HSE to meet the Deputy to try to alleviate some of his frustration and concern around this matter.

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