Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I want to acknowledge the good work that has been done, particularly in respect of geriatric emergency medicine, the unit at UHL, the expansion of nine treatment bays and 24-hour operations.

I believe that is very significant, especially because our region has a far greater number of those over 75 than any other region. The data shows that in the first quarter of this year, 617 patients were seen and only 36 required admission to the UHL emergency department. I acknowledge that the Minister secured step-down community beds, but more planning needs to be done on carers for over-75s and on keeping them out of the emergency department unless absolutely necessary.

The Minister has spoken about the phased expansion, which I had intended to asked about. He outlined that care has been extended until 10 o'clock or midnight, after which it moves to the 24-7 provision at the MAU. The number of presentations at the MAU has increased by 32% since the expansion in our region, which is significant.

Finally, I wish to point to the housing issue. Given the number of additional staff we are going to need, is the Minister considering any policy regarding key-worker housing?

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