This week, Offaly County Council unanimously supported new hospice care for Offaly, clearly demonstrating an appetite for further healthcare provision in the county and in the region. Meanwhile, we need the same ambition now in elective surgery. We see people sitting in congestion on trains and in cars, while too many are also on waiting lists. We really need ambition now to ensure we increase that capacity. Midlands Regional Hospital Portlaoise has a proven track record in emergency care, but it is at the expense of elective surgery. We really need to see this delivered. I ask the Tánaiste to make sure the Government prioritises additional capacity for elective surgery in the midlands. It should bring the care to the midlands rather than patients going all over the country for it.

As is often the case, Deputy Clendennen has made a valid, logical point that would make a real difference to patients, patient care, congestion and life. It works on a lot of levels. I join with him in saying it is a very significant week for the midlands and for Offaly in relation to the news of Offaly County Council's decision regarding the new hospice facility. We often highlight rightly here the challenges we have as a country. One of the areas in which we have had a lot of success over the last number of years is the provision of hospice facilities through partnership, collaboration and working with communities. This is really good news for the midlands. The Deputy is always rightly on to the next project as well, and there is merit in looking at how we can work in the midlands in terms of elective care. The hospitals in the midlands are noted for the work they are doing. There is a very good hospital in Tullamore. There is little doubt that a bit of work needs to be done in terms of preparing for the future. I am pleased to say the HSE CEO has now confirmed that the Dublin and midlands region of the HSE will conduct an analysis and an action plan to include expressions of interest to see what possibilities there are for newer additional capacity to be provided. This will specifically include the Deputy's suggestion of consideration around elective care. This will advance in quarter 1 of next year.