Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)

Some things are coming through these figures consistently. There is a pattern within them. I expect this would be the case if we were to look at the geographic variation. I know much of the challenge in CHO 8 concerns the fact that it is very difficult to get staff because it is exceptionally expensive to live in Dublin or the greater Dublin area.

There is then a variation across the State in the demographic and the demand on these services. It is incredibly important that these supports are in place when needed because they are so vital to ensuring the overall system functions properly and people have the care as close to home as possible.

On recruitment and retention of staff into these services, I know there were recent announcements about companies opening up in the sector, which are welcome, but it is a question of general recruitment and retention and the recent pay negotiations.

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