Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

I understand the Deputy’s concerns. It is something I will go back to the Department to clarify. I have been informed that, as of 5 June last, 22 patients have been seen at the Blackpool clinic in 2025 and approximately 410 home visits were carried out in the Blackpool area in the same period. SouthDoc has confirmed that the Blackpool treatment centre remains operational on an appointment basis. Alternative care may be provided to patients in the area via a home visit. This change to operational arrangements is necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the out-of-hours service in Cork city. The provision of this service is evaluated by SouthDoc and the HSE on an ongoing basis.

As an Oireachtas Member, a TD and a Minister of State, I understand the Deputy’s concerns. He represents the people and he needs to get answers. I will go back to the Department to get this clarified for him. I know that, in the programme for Government, primary care clinics or injury clinics are part of what we are looking at going forward. It is in the programme for Government and it is something I will definitely be looking at. I will definitely go back to the Department and then come back to the Deputy. I understand how passionate the Deputy is and I see his concerns.

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