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

I thank the Minister of State for her response. I seek clarification of a number of points. First, after the 96-bed block has gone to tender and the preferred bidder is in place, will the Government support its approval by the HSE board? We can get that block started in January and then built. It will be a significant build of 18 months of thereabouts. Second, will a plan be put in place now to determine how to reduce the number of people on trolleys? This month's average of 54 is too high. In that context, I acknowledge the fantastic work being done under difficult circumstances by the staff at UHL. People get great care there.

Our region has an historical issue. The 60-bed block has made a major difference, as has the 38-bed block, but we need the 96-bed block. We may even need further beds in future, but the 96-bed block must be got under way as quickly as possible.

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