Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)

-----are under way to determine the future direction of the services in the region. It is important to also highlight UHL's annual budget spend has increased from €265 million in 2019 to over €507 million in 2024. A package of wide-ranging reform support measures also is being implemented. It is important these measures are aimed at both capacity and reform of the healthcare system in the region. Increased staffing levels are also being prioritised. Staffing at UHL has grown by 32%, an increase of 1,465 whole time equivalents, since 2019 to August 2025. Other measures and reforms to alleviate congestion include the extension of opening hours for the medical assessment unit in the model 2 hospital in the region and the new surgical hub, which is expected to be operational by quarter 4 in 2026.

These are real steps being taken to ensure patient flow through ensuring sufficient staff and decisions are available for UHL seven days a week. I am sure many of these improvements and those identified within the HIQA report will make a real impact on the delivery of healthcare services in the mid-west.

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