I raise a concern in relation to Killybegs Community Hospital. There are 13 beds lying vacant. Surely with the pressures on acute hospitals like Sligo and Letterkenny, these community hospital beds should be fully operational and workable.

Families in the area are frustrated about the lack of use of these beds and the fact that their loved ones are being moved away to other towns in the county. They feel disconnected from them. The closer they are to their loved ones, the happier they are.

In June of last year, I wrote to HSE management and was informed that the beds had been closed due to staff shortages. I was also informed that there was a recruitment plan in place. That was six months ago. I would like to get an update to see how many people were recruited for Killybegs Community Hospital. The day care centre there used to be in operation five days per week, but is currently down to three. That was a great outlet for the people in my community. Older people could go into the day centre to get their breakfast and dinner and be involved in games. It was a great outlet for them. Will the Leader ask the Minister where matters stand in respect of these 13 beds? Will they be reopened soon? What recruitment has been done in the meantime? It is important for the people of Killybegs and surrounding areas, such as Kilgar, Carrick, Glen and up as far as Donegal town, that their loved ones can call to visit them rather than having to go to Letterkenny or further up the county. Maybe the Leader will make a few inquiries for me.