Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will bring the Deputy's observations back to the Minister, Deputy Donnelly. The upset of the staff, patients and their families has been noted. The Deputy also called for various protocols to be introduced. He also spoke about an unannounced visit by HIQA that may happen on Monday. I will try to clarify those issues for him. It is now clear that in order to safely and sustainably manage the provision of the health service into the future, significant investment will be required to build the IPC capacity in the coming years. We want to ensure our health service provides safe, quality and timely care. It is a priority for the Government. In that regard the HSE has provided assurance that all hygiene standards are adhered to on ward 1A and throughout Cork University Hospital. I will bring the Deputy's views and concerns to the Minister. I again thank him for raising this important issue.

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