Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour) | Oireachtas source

In the case of University Hospital Limerick, the situation is awful.

Some of my questions on cervical cancer have been asked. The Minister knows I wish to know when the tribunal will start. I have spoken to all the advocates and I do not buy the plan to bring back screening. It does not make sense to delay cervical cancer screening until the end of the month and see no reason it has not already commenced. Clinicians have told me there is no reason. I quoted Dr. Doireann O'Leary earlier. GPs can do smear tests and GP practices are engaging with people full time. I do not understand why those who do screening cannot do so. It is a big problem.

Earlier, the Taoiseach took on board two of my suggestions relating to a vaccine for everyone in the country and face coverings. He made commitments to consider them, which I appreciate.

The capital plan has obviously been impacted. I have asked many questions on various projects. When will the Minister publish a new updated capital plan? Will he do so in the next couple of weeks? I seek the status of the national maternity hospital, the children's hospital and various projects around the country. I re-emphasise the need for a new maternity hospital in Limerick.

Has the Minister considered legislation or an order relating to the wearing of face masks in settings such as public transport? How many doses of the flu vaccine are on order? The HSE needs to prepare to ramp up supply if it is to be given to everyone in the country. A time lag is involved in that. What is being done regarding the HPV vaccine? I have long been a passionate proponent of the need for a second dose. There must be a plan to ensure the period between the two doses is not so long as to make it unusable.

For five weeks in a row, I have raised the matter of people with intellectual disabilities. I am convinced that the 1 m and 2 m social distancing recommendation will be key for many services outside and inside the health sector on 29 June. People with intellectual disabilities, children and adults, are really regressing. Can we get services to them soon, please?

See this speech in context