Joint Committee on Health to meet for consideration of the preparedness of the hospital system for the expected seasonal increase in respiratory and other illnesses this winter

The meeting will hear from representatives from Health Service Executive.

Speaking ahead of the meeting Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Seán Crowe TD said “Our Committee is aware of the increased pressures placed on an already stretched health service coming into this part of the year annually. We also acknowledge that there has been significant investment in health over the past few years. Tomorrow’s meeting will be an opportunity to discuss how Ireland’s health service will function in the winter period this year. We will analyse the preparedness with the HSE for this expected seasonal increase and where they see their resources being directed as a priority and how impactful these measures will be on both patients and health sector workers already under pressure.”

The meeting in Committee Room 2 can be viewed live on Oireachtas TV.

Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.