Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister of State for taking this matter on behalf of the Minister for Health, Deputy James Reilly, and the response is, by and large, positive. I am not being political or parochial, but since I became a councillor in 1985 Bantry General Hospital has been the backbone of my reason for being in politics. Even when Fianna Fáil was in government I did not have a problem in challenging its current leader, Deputy Micheál Martin, or the former Minister Mary Harney on certain issues. I continue to work for the sake of the hospital. I spoke to the Minister and I am encouraged by the fact that he has visited the hospital, is aware of what is happening there and has a grasp of what is needed. I look forward to positive outcomes for the hospital.

I thank the Minister of State for taking this matter in the Minister's absence. I will be glad to convey the news that, despite the financial cutbacks, the loss of jobs will be insignificant.