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

I take the Senator's points about the long waiting and travel times for people with serious illnesses. It is an issue that requires our focus. However, the main message I will take back to the Minister is the need to progress the staffing issue. I am pleased to hear the Senator received great care in the Mater Hospital and am glad to see him well. I strongly agree with his comments on the magnificent work done by the staff at Roscommon hospital and the brave and caring work of the hospice movement in Roscommon and throughout the country. Hospice staff provide a great service and have an excellent relationship with the voluntary and public sectors. There is a warmth and energy there which one does not always see in other services. It is something of which we can all be proud. I assure the Senator that I will bring the message regarding the staffing requirement directly to the Minister.