Clare's Independent TD says the government should begin to implement a 10 year plan to tackle problems in our health service immediately.
Speaking in the Dail, Deputy Michael Harty, who was recently appointed Chair of the Oireachtas Health Committee, claimed morale among health professionals is at an all-time low, with many now moving to work outside Ireland.
Deputy Harty says this can be addressed by spending more money on primary care services, which will help take some of the pressure off hospitals and emergency departments.
And he insists there needs to be greater consultation with front line staff when making decisions.
Deputy Harty is also warning we're facing a serious shortage of GPs in the coming years, particularly in rural areas.
He says this can only be solved by reviewing doctors' contracts.
