Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I am not happy that the Cathaoirleach has sent me a letter to the effect that a road project in County Westmeath is the responsibility of the NRA rather than the Minister for Transport. Like some of my colleagues, I am not sure who is really making the decisions in this area. Last Friday the Leader and I attended a meeting at which this matter was discussed. As we listened to the discussion, we learned that the NRA had refused to meet Westmeath County Council to discuss the road project. It is outrageous that we do not know to whom bodies such as the NRA and the HSE are answerable. How can we get things done when we do not know who is responsible? As some Members are aware, work on the bypass in question will be ready to proceed as soon as €800,000 has been provided to finish it. That money was allocated, but we do not know what happened afterwards. What is the story?

I am glad Senator Glynn finished his remarks about Mullingar Regional Hospital by saying he was waiting with bated breath for Professor Drumm to come to Mullingar. He is right to be waiting with bated breath, considering the way the professor and his HSE colleagues have done everything in their power to downgrade the colposcopy, sexual assault and dermatology units at the hospital. The HSE is constantly trying to withdraw services from it. If I were Senator Glynn, I would not be as upbeat about the matter. I would be imploring the Minister, Deputy Harney, to take action. The Government which has been in power for many years should ensure there are no further downgrades. I will conclude by reminding Senator Glynn that the dermatologist he mentioned did not stay at the hospital because there were no backup services, no registrar, no facilities and no resources to support her.