Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy will be aware, we have allocated very significant funding in the budget for a national network of clinics to treat long Covid. It is a priority and I and the Government recognise that it is an area in which more and more investment is needed. I raised the issue of the clinic in the Mater directly with the HSE. The decision to close the clinic was not a political decision, as the Deputy will be aware, and I acknowledge he is not suggesting that. It was based on the clinical view of the HSE with regard to the funding of that particular clinic. The Deputy and I can have views. I know the doctor involved, who is a very eminent practitioner. He has worked very hard and has set out his case. The HSE has a different view, which has led to the removal of funding. I can commit to keeping the matter under review. I have no doubt the Deputy will continue to raise the issue and we will continue to engage on it. As he is aware, we have allocated very significant funding for a national network of treatment because people who suffer long Covid need rapid access to the best possible care.

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