Ryan O'Meara (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

UHL offers the only emergency department for a catchment of approximately 400,000 people across north Tipperary, Clare and Limerick. It is the only emergency department in Ireland with such a large population depending on it. The people I represent do not believe one emergency department is enough for the mid-west region, with north Tipperary feeling services are inadequate, particularly while we wait for the 96-bed unit to be opened this summer. The last time I asked this question, we were awaiting the interim report from HIQA in relation to the need for a second emergency department in the region. I understand that interim report has now been provided to the Minister. Has the Minister considered that report to date? Will it be published? When is the final report from HIQA on this matter expected?

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