Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

The HSE also tells me that there are no general medical services GP vacancies in County Louth. As we know, when a vacancy arises, the HSE actively recruits.

I have a couple of positives for the Deputy. The new locum support initiative has commenced, which provides GPs in receipt of rural practice supports with access to a streamlined local recruitment service. This initiative is initially focusing on supporting the more than 130 single-handed GPs working in isolated areas.

I will bring his concerns back to the Minister and he will probably discuss with her the primary care centre in Rathdowney. It is positive that we are going to see an extension of the service in the existing primary care centre. The site is big enough for that to happen and the extension of services can happen much quicker. I know that from my own experience.

The development of primary care infrastructure in County Laois is progressing. The Deputy Aird is correct that we want to bring the right care at the right time as close to home as possible. I will pass on his concerns to the Minister.

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