226. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Health for an update on the establishment of a planned trauma care service at Merlin Park University Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52089/26]

The Trauma Strategy, A Trauma System for Ireland: The Report of the Trauma Steering Group, was approved by Government in February 2018. The Strategy recommended the development of an inclusive trauma system, to co-ordinate and standardise the care of approximately 1,600 patients who suffer major trauma in Ireland each year.

Additional funding was of €4m was provided for the Trauma Strategy in 2025 (full year funding of €8m in 2026). This included funding for the development of Planned Trauma Care services at Merlin Park, Galway.

Planned Trauma Care at Merlin Park will provide a clinical pathway for people with injuries that can be managed as a day-case or with a short length of stay. Planned Trauma Care will also allow patients to receive follow-on services after their initial trauma care, and will deliver improvements in the care of patients with less severe injuries by scheduling these patients for theatre. This will lead to better patient experience, efficiency, and reduced waiting times in the Emergency Department.

I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly to provide further details on Planned Trauma Care services at Merlin Park.