Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I fully accept what the Deputy is saying about orthopaedic waiting lists, particularly for children who require surgery, be that for spina bifida or scoliosis. Very substantial funding has been provided. Covid-19 unfortunately had an impact on waiting lists in 2020 and 2021 but there are plans to increase capacity in the existing orthopaedic centres and at Cappagh, the national orthopaedic hospital, to support paediatric orthopaedic services. That will form part of the 2022 waiting list action plan. We are going to have to concentrate very quickly on those who are waiting too long for urgent surgery.

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