Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am pleased to hear that the process will be completed in the coming weeks and a priority application for capital funding will be put forward.

When I visited the practice two weeks ago, I could see for myself the urgent need to upgrade the building. The reception area is tiny and cramped. There are three receptionists. There are wires trailing over sinks. It doubles as a kitchenette and a storage area. There are holes in the floor. The building is unsafe. That practice sees between 4,000 and 5,000 patients; it is a huge practice. The most crucial issue, which is pretty disgusting, is the fact that the wastewater system is malfunctioning. I am told staff have to come in nearly an hour before the practice opens in the morning, run the taps and flush the toilets continuously, and open the windows so that people can come in an hour later. The Minister will hear from what I am saying the urgency in this matter.

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