Video – Health Minister's response to hospital crisis 'pathetic'

HEALTH MINISTER Leo Varadkar's response to the hospital beds crisis which sees record numbers of patients waiting on hospital trolleys has been described as "pathetic" by Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD.

Speaking to An Phoblacht on Dublin's Molesworth Street earlier, Deputy Ó Caoláin said the provision of extra beds, extra nurses, step-down facilities, long term care and nursing home beds is the only long term solution to the crisis:

"This crisis is a direct consequence of Government policy.  The Government’s failure to invest in hospital staff and beds and its failure to listen to the concerns of front-line staff has directly led to this crisis."

Deputy Ó Caoláin said he was deeply disappointed by Leo Varadkar's response:

"I would've expected more. It's simply not good enough. It is very important that he heeds the advice of the representative organisations representing doctors, nurses and midwives in relation to the solutions required and he should act on those immediately."

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation says the situation must be treated as a health crisis, adding:

"Care is now being severely compromised and this cannot be tolerated any longer."