David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I spoke earlier about the crisis we have in GP capacity. There are so many crises in health and I think the Minister will accept we have a real problem in this State. I am getting calls from people who are telling me that for the first time, they are having real difficulties getting an appointment to see a GP. It is not just Covid-related. It is a problem in rural areas but also in parts of Dublin as well. Many people cannot get registered with a GP. The HSE has said there is a deficit of up to 1,600 GPs. That is even before the 500 GPs it is anticipated will retire over the next five years is taken into consideration. That means 2,100 GPs will be needed over the next five years. What is the plan to make that happen?

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