A Mid-West TD is calling for answers on whether adequate funding is in place to facilitate the opening of the new emergency department at University Hospital Limerick.
A Mid-West TD is calling for answers on whether adequate funding is in place to facilitate the opening of the new emergency department at University Hospital Limerick.
1.4 million euro has been set aside for the new facility, which is due to open in May, but Limerick TD Jan O'Sullivan believes that in the region of 3 million euro will be required to keep it running until the end of the year.
She's again asking the Health Minister to commit to the May opening date that has been confirmed by the UL Hospitals Group.
Deputy O'Sullivan says every effort needs to be made to ensure the ED is opened on time.
Meanwhile, industrial action may be on the cards at University Hospital Limerick.
SIPTU, which represents 500 staff at the Dooradoyle facility, has confirmed that if the majority of its members vote in favour of industrial action, the trade union would not be co-operating with the opening of the new Emergency Department.
The trade union claims that the UL Hospitals Group has failed to engage with the trade union formally on the opening of the new ED, however the CEO of UL Hospitals Group says that's not the case.
Colette Cowan insists that the group has engaged in informal and formal discussions with staff and representatives "over several months".
