Page 53 of the programme for Government makes reference to healthcare in our communities. It was recently highlighted that 44% of general practitioner, GP, clinics are full, with rural areas being worst hit. In County Laois, 100% of GPs have stated that they cannot take on new patients and in County Offaly only 20% of GPs are in a position to take on new patients. The lack of GPs has reached crisis point in some regions. I have been contacted by many concerned constituents in Laois and Offaly on this issue. What actions will the Government and the Minister for Health collectively take to resolve this crisis, which is particularly pertinent and obvious in rural areas?

Also, will a stakeholder forum be convened in an attempt to resolve this ongoing crisis, which is worsening by the day?

The answer to the problem is the recruitment of more GPs across the country, which we are actively trying to do.