'Let's admit it was a mistake' - Tipp GE candidate Cllr Michael Smith talks UHL

"The decision to centralise the emergency service in the University Hospital Limerick for the Mid-West region has not proven to be effective in dealing with the medical needs of the people.

"The time has come to admit that this decision was a mistake."

Cllr Michael Smith campaigning in Nenagh with his supporters at the weekend, aired his views in a strong and honest way.

"When a service is so overwhelmed, that a patient diagnosed with a GP and was in potential Sepsis, does not receive the immediate medical attention, something drastic has gone wrong.

"It is time to call a halt. HIQA in reviewing this service is assessing whether a second emergency facility is needed for the region. When the Dáil representatives are elected for the North Tipperary and North West Kilkenny area, I hope that they will work together to secure the best outcome possible for Nenagh hospital.

Having these services closer to home, will bring enormous relief to those with serious illnesses, and in particular people furthest away from Limerick, Rathcabin and Lower Ormond generally. It would seem to me also, that some realistic way must be found to ensure that those with the most serious illnesses, must always get immediate and top priority."