Shane Ross (Independent)

I will ask a question to the Acting Leader and then finish.

It is not only a Dublin issue. More than anybody, it affects the people of Tallaght, which has the fastest-growing population in Ireland. However, the Mater Hospital is inaccessible to a large number of people who may need treatment extremely quickly. Will the Acting Leader tell the House why we cannot have a children's hospital established as a hub and spokes? A large hub could be established in the Mater Hospital and treatment could also be given to children in Dún Laoghaire, Tallaght and other places. I cannot see what is wrong with that. Perhaps it could be a compromise.

The ethical issue is another matter which can be resolved within an umbrella organisation. However, I cannot understand why it must all be placed in the Taoiseach's constituency.