Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael)

The Minister for Health and Children when dealing with the issue of patient safety in the House yesterday presented global figures that suggested all was well. I seek guidance on this issue because I am at a loss to know where we can get direct answers to specific questions. All the local crises do not add up to everything being acceptable globally.

This morning and in recent days I was yet again contacted concerning what I would call a silent crisis affecting lone men isolated in rural Ireland. A GP contacted me to advise that in her clinic alone 20 men miss their diabetic or cardiac clinic visits weekly in the hospital because of a cutback in their transport service. One of her patients is a double amputee. He has no vehicle and is totally isolated. I seek the Leader's guidance on this matter. Should I request that the Minister be invited back to the House to address this issue?