Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That was the information in the reply given to me. Unfortunately, the response does not contain clear timelines. With any matters such as these, there is the potential, through statutory processes, for delays. It can be hard to earmark exact timelines but I reiterate that the Government remains fully committed to improving health services. We have demonstrated that commitment with strong investment in the mid-west and, indeed, throughout the entire country.

As I noted in my opening remarks, UL Hospitals Group has made progress recently in seeking to develop its dialysis services and expand them to Ennis. This would be a welcome development. It is vital we provide services closer to people's homes. Community-based services can and do have a significant impact on patients' experiences.

This is a project that has been led by the HSE to drive improvements to the services that are already being provided. The procurement process is being managed in line with HSE guidelines. I have advised the House of the updates the HSE has provided on the process so far. The Minister and Department will continue to seek updates on progress. We continue to work closely with the HSE to ensure it is providing a quality service for all the people of the mid-west.