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

The Deputy has raised issues with regard to risk assessment. I will bring them to the attention of the Minister. The Government and the Department of Health remain fully committed to improving services in Limerick and throughout the country. It is clear that after what has been a very difficult couple of years at University Hospital Limerick, significant efforts are now being made to ensure that issues such as overcrowding in the emergency department and delays for elective care are being considered and addressed as matters of priority.

The Minister has met and had discussions with senior officials from his Department and the HSE regarding the situation at University Hospital Limerick. As a result of the Minister's intervention, the PMIU of the HSE has been mandated to engage urgently with the hospital group and the CHO under the HSE's performance accountability framework. The PMIU will provide the intensive support needed to ensure that all necessary immediate steps are taken to address the safety issues identified, included chronic overcrowding. On foot of the PMIU's engagement, a detailed plan will be urgently developed to ensure that they do not reoccur.

I assure the Deputy that the Government is fully aware of the impact on patients, their families and the mid-west. Intensive efforts are under way to address difficulties currently facing University Hospital Limerick. I also thank the Deputy for the way he put this matter across. It has been very emotional and I will bring his views to the Minister. The Department of Health continues to work with the HSE to ensure support for the improvement of services for all patients attending the hospital.

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