Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I join others in congratulating the Minister of State on taking a common sense approach to this issue. This is a very sensible proposal and I am glad to see the Government is on board with it. I compliment my colleague, Senator Swanick, a doctor, on his work in this particular area.

I support my colleague, Senator Mullen, and the sentiments he expressed about GPs, many of whom are leaving the country. At the moment, people who move to parts of County Monaghan from another area cannot get a GP appointment. This is a serious issue, not just in Monaghan but in many parts of rural Ireland, and we must be conscious of it. We have to implement measures to ensure it is attractive for GPs to locate and set up businesses in places in rural Ireland, including counties Monaghan and Cavan. It is important not to lose sight of that.