David Cullinane (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his response. I share his view that hospital management has responded impressively. He has acknowledged that the figures for opthalmology, orthopaedics and ENT are very high. I welcome the announcement of the new and replacement consultant posts. If the new posts do not allow the hospital to reduce its waiting times and numbers, is the Minister in a position to say whether extra posts will be made available? Capacity is important in order to allow hospitals reach their targets.

Perhaps he can answer my concern about the provision of 24-7 cardiology. It is a major issue for people in the southeast. I hope that he will positively address the matter. A commitment has been given to enhance such services but what does that mean?