Ruairi Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Had I realised I had this slot, I might not have dealt with quite as many issues yesterday; however, in fairness, I may revisit some of them. I hope we can get an answer on some of them.

Like everyone else, I am very glad we are dealing with the issue of safe staffing levels in hospitals. We all know the issues that we had, particularly in December and January. We know of the chaotic scenes in a considerable number of hospitals and the issues that continue to arise in the likes of University Hospital Limerick. Obviously, the issues are having a huge impact on patients across the board. We know of the difficulties that have arisen for elderly patients, who are under considerable pressure. My party colleague Deputy Munster was speaking about the particular issues that we faced in Drogheda. We all know there was a huge ambulance backup. We all know the issues relating to staff being under incredible pressure.

I welcome some of what the Minister has said. Framework for Safe Nurse Staffing and Skill Mix in General and Specialist Medical and Surgical Care Settings in Ireland was published in 2018, so it is just a matter of ensuring we do the entire piece of work that needs to be done in regard to it as soon as possible and deal with the issues concerning working conditions. Obviously, such issues arise for a large number of people. We are aware there are wider issues concerning accommodation and other matters that impact on many people, who are deciding to move from the Irish health service to Australia and Canada. This is not working for any of us at this point.

Could I get an answer on neurorehabilitation teams in each community health organisation, CHO? Is there an update on the Minister's engagement with the Irish Dental Association on the specific issue of dental care for those on a medical card?

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