Naas hospital overcrowding
Deputy O'Loughlin raised severe overcrowding and delays at Naas hospital, including long trolley numbers and a stroke patient waiting over 18 hours. The Tánaiste said the Minister had recently visited the hospital and would be asked to respond on the specific issues.
I ask Deputy O'Loughlin to be brief and to think of her colleagues who would like an opportunity to ask questions today.
Comment on this
I have to refer to the problems in Naas hospital yet again. There were 21 people on trolleys at the hospital last night. This is one of the highest figures in the region. There were 24 people on trolleys the night before. One gentleman of my acquaintance presented himself at the hospital at 3 p.m. yesterday with signs of a stroke, but he was not seen until 9.30 a.m. today, or more than 18 hours later. This is an absolute disgrace. In May, I highlighted the fact that the admissions unit at the hospital is closed, which is adding to these problems. How many of the 190 beds that were announced yesterday will be in Naas? What will happen to the elderly people who are having to stay on trolleys for over 18 hours? We all know that someone who presents with the signs of a stroke needs treatment straight away.
Comment on this
I understand the Minister, Deputy Harris, has visited Naas hospital in the last couple of days.
Comment on this
He did not invite me to meet him.