Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Cathaoirleach for allowing a matter to be raised on the Adjournment last night regarding the future of Roscommon County Hospital. Regrettably the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Mary Harney, did not attend so I could not address my questions on the future of the hospital. Professor Drumm has made statements in the constituency and in County Galway on the future configuration of Roscommon and Portiuncula hospitals and hospitals in the region. Last night the Minister of State, Deputy Mary Wallace, said on behalf of the Minister that discussions are ongoing.

As a former Deputy, Minister of State and now Senator, I find it is very difficult to get answers to a question I tabled legitimately on behalf of my constituents.