169. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 409 of 1 October 2019, if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the new public sector pay agreement has escalated the funding issue experienced by the North West Hospice (details supplied); the way in which the hospice can continue to deliver the level of service it does under the current financial situation; when the issue will be resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41390/19]

As previously outlined to the House, the current service level agreement process provides a forum for hospices to discuss any issues or difficulties with the Chief Officer of the relevant Community Healthcare Organisation.

Within this context, I have asked the HSE to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the further issues raised regarding the North West Hospice.