Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The services provided at injury units provide a safe and convenient delivery of the right care in the right place at the right time and make an immediate positive impact on patients' experience. I once had my ear stitched back on at the side of the pitch in Oak Park. I would have definitely much preferred to have gone to an injury unit. However, that was not today or yesterday. The HSE is reviewing the recommendations and developing an implementation plan for further development of services at injury units. The implementation of these recommendations will be through the urgent and emergency care plan 2024 and subsequent plans, as appropriate. The work is ongoing subject to resource and other considerations. No decision has been reached by the HSE on specific new locations for injury units. However, increasing the number of locations is under consideration, subject to available resources. We all know the demographic changes that are going on throughout the country, but particularly in large towns like Carlow, and the need for additional services. It would make sense to have new injury units. I know the people of Carlow can be assured the Deputy will continue to put this case to the Minister, Deputy Donnelly, and I am more than happy to join in that call.

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