Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I accept the Senator point and agree with him that the real issue does not concern St. Patrick's Hospital but Our Lady's Hospital. It is a key priority for me. I also accept the Senator's point that there is not enough capacity in the hospital in Clonmel. We have to deal with that issue. During the talks that took place in agreeing to A Programme for a Partnership government we constantly discussed the urgent need to provide more beds in the health system. The Senator will have noted that an extra €500 million will be provided for health services this year, but we need to deliver services to local communities in local hospitals such as Our Lady's. I will convey all of the Senator's concerns and views to the Minister, Deputy Simon Harris, and give a commitment to push these matters.