Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)

I agree with the Deputy. The point about diagnostics is important. It is one of the reasons it is important for me to visit different hospitals and understand the efficiency of their work. Sligo hospital, for example, has two CT machines beside each other, which allows staff to move back and forth between them and thereby increase the number of scans being conducted. Some hospitals use their CT machines between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Others use them between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. This inconsistency can have an impact on diagnostics.

I highlight the increase in the number of radiographers registered with CORU. There was a 10% increase between the end of 2023 and the end of 2024. Numbers are increasing in 2025. It is important that the registration of radiographers who have the capacity to work in Ireland is progressed by CORU efficiently. I would say the same for any other healthcare professionals who want to work in Ireland. If they are entitled to, they should be able to do so quickly. That might be an interesting programme of work for the health committee.

On rapid access clinics, I will be able to give the Deputy more detailed information but I am over time.

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