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

Of course I accept the Senator's point about immediate short-term solutions. We need a process to resolve those issues. I will strongly convey that message to the Minister, Deputy Harris. It is widely accepted that additional beds are part of the solution for Limerick hospital. Over the past two winters, an additional 25 beds have opened in Limerick, including eight as part of this year's winter plan. The bottom line is that we need to move as quickly as possible. We must also examine the issues of staffing and productivity improvements, but additional capacity must be delivered in tandem if we are to have a realistic chance of meeting healthcare needs over the coming decades, particularly the needs of the people of Limerick.