Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
1793. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 71 of 29 May 2018, if the process for wider consultation has commenced on the draft action plan for the Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise; the progress to date on the matter; the status of the draft plan prepared by regional management; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34890/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am committed to securing and further developing the role of the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise as a constituent hospital within the Dublin Midlands Hopsital Group. Since 2014, the focus has been on supporting the hospital to develop and enhance management capability, implementing changes required to address clinical service deficiencies, and incorporating the hospital into the governance structures within the Dublin Midlands Hospital Group.
Significant work has been undertaken to strengthen and stabilise current arrangements for services at the hospital to ensure that services that are not sustainable are discontinued and those that are, are safety assured and adequately resourced. Funding has increased by 35% relative to the 2012 budget and staffing levels have risen by 29% from the 2014 base. Governance and management arrangements in Portlaoise Hospital have been strengthened, additional clinical staff has been appointed and staff training, hospital culture and communications have improved.
As outlined at a meeting with Laois Oireachtas members, no decision has been made yet on the draft Action Plan for Portlaoise Hospital and I am currently giving consideration to a process for wider consultation.
