Today, I wish to talk about Our Lady's Hospital, Navan, and its continued future as one of the most important healthcare facilities in County Meath and the wider north east. It is important to mention this because so many people ask me if the hospital is going to close and what will happen to it. Despite ongoing debates, we are going to see continued investment in the hospital, which will only benefit patients and staff alike. Future capital investment for Navan hospital includes a new minor injuries unit and an upgrade to the hospital's power infrastructure. Since 2020, the number of staff has increased by 17.5% and in the same period the budget has increased by 51%. Under the acute hospital bed expansion plan, a total of 46 new and replacement beds will be in by 2031, although most are in now. These figures clearly indicate a strengthening of the hospital's operational capacity, and it is good to know that the HSE has put in place a detailed compliance plan addressing the risks identified by HIQA in 2024 and 2025. Improvements have been made in governance, management and clinical environments following inspection.

Only a few weeks ago, I had a fall at home and had to attend the minor injuries unit in the hospital. I have nothing but admiration and respect for all the staff there, including Dr. Jamal, for their efficiency and professionalism in looking after me at the time. I also have to mention the phenomenal new rheumatology extension, which has had a positive impact on outpatient clinics.

Recently, a meeting was held between the Minister, Deputy Carroll MacNeill, and senior HSE management. Discussion focused on the rising demand for services across Louth and Meath and the pressures on hospitals in the region. A further meeting is planned, which I am delighted to hear, and I am looking forward to the review on that. Navan hospital still treats a large portion of patients locally, particularly through medical assessment and injury services, and plays a vital role in reducing the pressure on Drogheda.

Navan hospital remains a crucial local healthcare facility. It provides local access to care but also has a dedicated workforce, increases in funding and staffing, ongoing infrastructure upgrades and planned expansion of bed capacity. However, although all that sounds great, Meath has a current population of 220,000 people, a 13% increase since 2016, making it one of the fastest growing counties in Ireland. The population is expected to go up to 240,000 people in the next two years and possibly to 270,000 people by 2040. Meath is heading towards having a 250,000 people very soon, so a strong, reliable hospital is an absolute must. With Meath's current population now larger than some Irish counties that have far better hospital infrastructure, now is the time to make sure this happens. It has the population of a city but the healthcare infrastructure of a small county, and that gap is no longer acceptable. I welcome everything the Minister is doing but I would also welcome a discussion on Navan hospital here in the Chamber when we can have one.