The Tánaiste has defended Government efforts to improve the health system in the Midwest, saying increased capacity at Ennis General Hospital may achieve faster results than an elective-only hospital.
Leo Varadkar says postive steps are being taken to tackle choronic overcrowding at University Hospital Limeick, with the expansion of the existing hospital system, through 100 additional beds over the past two years and the new 98-bed block, which is coming down the line.
The Fine Gael Leader, who’s been visiting Clare in recent days, says beds and increased staff alone won’t solve the overcrowding crisis and that the focus should be on community services and hospitals working well, together with good clinical leadership and management.
Leo Varadkar says waiting lists could be reduced through buying space at the new private hospital in Limerick, which is due to be finished within three years, as well as boosting elective capacity in Ennis and Nenagh.
