Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will follow up on those two cases. I agree there must be a common-sense approach and that people must have options. When a list is frozen, which happens for a myriad of reasons, people may not be in a position to move. Health issues are challenging enough without causing further distress to people.

The number of doctors entering GP training has increased by 80% between 2015 and 2023. The availability of 350 training places for new entrants is planned for this year, representing a 22% increase on last year's intake of 286. That is really important. The HSE has made great progress in filling GMS GP vacancies since last year's high of 34, with the number now down to 23. The HSE will continue to work on the issue and I will keep a close eye on it. I have been consulted by several constituents regarding the vacancy in Lismore, which, unfortunately, was not filled after previously being advertised. I understand how difficult the situation is for certain patients.