Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I ask that the Leader find time to debate the recent Health Protection Surveillance Centre report, which is frightening. Surveys are done all around Europe, and although there are no accurate statistics for Ireland, it is suggested that between ten and 20 people die each week from hospital-acquired infections, primarily MRSA. This adds up to hundreds each year.

One of the problems is that it is possible to open a private hospital without a licence and there being a guarantee that such a facility will be inspected. I was unaware that this was the case. People need licences for their dogs and televisions sets and in order that they might drive their cars. It is horrific, therefore, that one does not require a licence to open and operate a hospital. If the figures to which I refer are correct - those who produced them do not claim they are accurate - it appears that between ten and 20 people die each week from the diseases in question. This means that hundreds are dying each year. The report also suggests 31% of all doctors do not wash their hands when they are visiting hospitals. I do not know whether this information has been thrown out in order to encourage discussion. However, the matter is worthy of debate and the Minister of Health should be invited to come before the House in order to assist Members in their deliberations on it.