Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister of State for his comprehensive response. I will take this opportunity to compliment him.. Since he came into office, he has grabbed this issue by the scruff of the neck and it is clear that progress is being made. I am disappointed, however, in the times for Monaghan. It just seems to be a bit of an outlier in that regard. I ask that the Minister of State would give particular focus to Monaghan to bring it to a level similar to the national average and to that of the neighbouring county of Cavan. That would be our ambition. Is there a particular focus on Monaghan bearing in mind that the wait time seems to be abnormally high there compared to elsewhere? Is there a specific reason for that? The ten-week average by September and the fact that the Minister of State is getting fortnightly reports is very positive. I thank the Minister of State for his work. It is clear that the issue is being tackled and taken seriously. I thank him for his work on that.