Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

I join with my colleague, Senator O'Brien, and other speakers in raising the ongoing difficulties in Monaghan General Hospital, in particular, the recent sad death at the hospital of Mr. Patrick Walsh. As my colleague outlined, on previous occasions both he and I raised issues regarding the surgical services and other services at Monaghan hospital. The people of the catchment area are provided with adequate and efficient medical services by Cavan General Hospital and Monaghan General Hospital.

I call on the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children to come to the House to debate these difficulties, particularly the situation regarding Monaghan General Hospital. I am not a medical professional but my understanding is Mr. Walsh should not have died. I welcome the inquiry launched by the Minister into his death. An eminent senior consultant from Northern Ireland will carry out the investigation. I regret it will take eight weeks but if results are achieved following the investigation and no more innocent people suffer because of bureaucracy, I am willing to wait.