Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Taoiseach for his response. What I am asking is that we make sure we have the funding and services going forward. As the Minister for Health knows, Louth County Hospital has a very good stroke unit, and the people from the local area avail of it. My problem is that the prediction for the period up to 2025 is a 60% increase in strokes. Therefore, it is important that we invest more money. Twenty units are already under severe strain and there is talk of some places not having enough staff or funding. Therefore, it is important the Taoiseach consider the current situation.

The number of people I know who got a stroke in recent months is noteworthy. It is important that when they go to accident and emergency or elsewhere, they receive aftercare. The accident and emergency departments have been so overcrowded that it is very important that when a person presents with a suspected stroke, the right people are in the hospitals. The more stroke units and stroke staff, the better to assist people. Will the Taoiseach please ensure the funding and services go to the stroke units?

See this speech in context