Yesterday, expectant mothers in Kildare received word with very little notice that the community midwife service at Athy primary care centre had been cancelled. This service has provided crucial prenatal care to women in Athy, Castledermot and surrounding areas. This care was local, consistent and accessible. The sudden withdrawal of this service now means that women will have to travel to Portlaoise for similar care. Public transport options are limited and many will need to pay out of pocket for taxis to the hospital. For women who are already at their most vulnerable, including those with other children at home, no car or limited support, this adds significant stress. To date, the HSE has not provided a timeline for the restoration of the service. What immediate steps will be taken to ensure expectant mothers in south Kildare can continue to access the care they need close to home and without unnecessary barriers?

Again, I will talk to the Minister involved. Has the Deputy spoken to the HSE authorities locally or regionally about why the service was suddenly stopped? There is normally a background to these issues. Certainly, we will enquire with the HSE and with the Minister.

Staffing issues.

If the Deputy gets the background information, we will see what we can do.