I want to raise the issue of maternity services at Mayo University Hospital and the staffing levels therein, which I have raised previously. Currently, there are 15 whole-time equivalent vacancies in the maternity unit. I appreciate that given the nature of this unit, it is difficult to predict how busy it will be on any given day. According to reports, last week there were insufficient birthing suites to meet need, including a number of emergency cases. The midwives and nurses in this unit are beyond amazing. They dealt with the situation and the care they provided was top class. Demand for this service is ever increasing, with people from all over the region seeking to access it. At the very least, the vacant posts need to be filled without further delay.

I thank the Deputy for raising the matter. Delays in maternity services are unacceptable. I will raise the issue with the Minister, Deputy Harris, and ask him to respond to the Deputy directly.