Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to bring up the issue of bed capacity in University Hospital Limerick, UHL, in my constituency. As the Minister is aware, a 60-bed block there has been under construction since the start of the year. In addition to that, as part of a Covid response, another 48 beds have been earmarked for UHL which brings that up to 98 beds in total. Of the 48 additional beds, 14 are due to be completed and opened in June with 24 beds opened in July. In addition, another 24 beds are to be provided in Croom for completion in July as well. Will the Minister give an assurance that resources will be in place to ensure UHL can recruit the necessary staff in order that these units are open when completed? As the Minister will be well aware, Limerick and the mid-west region has a bed capacity issue outside of Covid. I am looking for a reassurance about resources. I know the buildings are under way which is great news for Limerick. However, will the resources be in place to ensure staff can be recruited and be in place when the 122 beds are completed at the units in UHL and Croom?

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