Health

• Following the independent investigation that I brought about in 2000 regarding Standards of Care for the Elderly in Killarney Community Hospital I have sought the setting up of an independent body to carryout unannounced inspections of all Public/Private Hospitals and Nursing homes to ensure proper care of the Elderly and sick. 
• Sought proper funding, staffing and availability of beds to cater properly for Kerry patients who have to undertake Breast Cancer assessment traveling to the Centre of Excellence at Cork University Hospital
• Welcome the provision of the badly needed Breast Check Screening Unit for the people of Kerry.
• Working to provide a dedicated stroke unit at Kerry General Hospital.
• Condemn the closing of the valuable male ward in St.Columbanus home and the effect it will have on the loss of valuable beds which are required for Killarney and surrounding areas.
• Requested the urgent need of a specialised Cystic Fibrosis ward at Cork University Hospital to properly cater for CF patients.
• That the Government recognise that Carer’s save the state €2.5 billion a year and I want this Government to raise the level of income for Carer’s up to 20 hours for work outside the home and to increase Carer’s allowance to €340 per week and immediately publish the National Carer’s strategy.
• Persisting with the Campaign for the urgent need of a 24hr A&E unit based in Killarney.
• Publicly questioning senior HSE officials on the scandal of beds being left empty and specialised facilities unused at the intellectual disability unit at Ballydribben, Killarney.
• Continue working for the needs and services required for people with disabilities and special needs, particularly respite care and back up services for families and the provision of home help.