Fine Gael’s Dr. Liam Twomey has outlined the importance of Wexford’s roads to the recovery of the economy. “The local roads should be our first priority as people’s cars are getting destroyed due to the huge potholes. These roads are important not only to local businesses in our towns and villages but also to everyone in the community such as elderly people going in and out for their pensions and to their GP or to the hospital. It is also affecting our children going to school every day.”
“Our second priority should be the New Ross and Enniscorthy bypasses. They should not be put on hold pending the 2015/16 Budget. Good access across the county is vital to the regrowth of our economy in County Wexford, the South East and the rest of the country and despite Fianna Fail’s claims, we do not need 800 million euros up front as they would be built under a Public Private Partnership, which would actually cost 30 million euros per year.”
Dr. Twomey pointed out that the Enniscorthy route was selected in 2001and even though we had the Celtic Tiger years, the bypass still has not being built. “So, being realistic I do not believe that the Oylegate / Rosslare bypass will be built. Traffic does not stop between Oylegate and Kilrane but Enniscorthy and New Ross are traffic bottlenecks and therefore these bypasses should be our priority.”
Dr. Twomey added, “Wexford has had a raw deal: we have lost our rail link to Limerick and Waterford and the likelihood of a university in Waterford is very slim. With the New Ross and Enniscorthy bypasses, Wexford with Rosslare Europort would be seen as the hub for transporting goods to and from Europe and this would be good for the future of Wexford and this country.”
Dr. Liam Twomey, Fine Gael Wexford
Click on logo to learn more about me on Fine Gael's website
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
DR. LIAM TWOMEY CONVENTION SPEECH 16 Dec 2010
Let me start off by saying that I learn from my mistakes.
I was naive about the last election, politically, I made mistakes.
Before the last election, I travelled the whole country getting everyone else elected, but forgot about the words of Tip O’Neill, the famous Irish American congressman who said ‘All politics is local’.
That is one mistake I will not be repeating this time.
There is a perception that I can be shy, soft spoken, and not aggressive enough. Do not interpret this as a weakness. I have seen people die in front of me, that gives me the steely resolve I need as a doctor, it is also what this country and this campaign needs. This time we will have a good campaign.
I am committed to what Fine Gael stands for:
Decency, Honesty and a commitment to Public Service.
What about our friend Brian Lenihan?
1. In September 2008, he said,
The bank bail out was going to be the cheapest bailout in the history of the state.
Over 50 million down a black hole later was not the cheapest option.
2. Even by January 2009, he was saying,
Bailing out Anglo Bank Irish would only cost 4.5 Billion.
So far, we have spent 30 Billion on Anglo and the meter is still running.
3. On budget day last year,
The last sentence in his budget speech was
‘We have turned the corner’.
We have turned the corner alright;
We ran straight into a cement mixer with the registration plates, IMF 2011
4. As we all know in November of this year, according to the two nodding donkeys, Dempsey and Ahern, the IMF coming into Ireland was fiction.
In this month the IMF arrived.
Whether it is Brian Cowen or Brian Lenihan, when they speak, they no longer inspire confidence, in anyone who has to pay a mortgage,
they do not inspire confidence for the future, they make me worry about my children’s future.
This government has exported, DELL Computers to Poland, The Sugar Beet industry to Europe, Our Sovereignty to Germany.
De Valera, the poster boy for Fianna Fail once stated
‘Never again will we export our children like live exports’
How Fianna Fail has failed us: Our young carpenters, electricians, nurses, teachers, all our most valuable commodities, are destined, because of this government’s failure, for export again.
It is now our responsibility and our duty to turn this tide.
Now some people say, Liam Twomey, he is a national politician.
I know my way around the Department of Finance, the Department of Health, and the HSE, like I know my own home.
I have spoken to Olli Relin from the EU commission and to Ajai Cropra from the IMF about this useless government.
I know, what it is to be local,
it is about jobs,
it is about getting money to fix our roads;
it is about stopping the downgrade of our hospital.
It is about giving ourselves and our children a chance.
I will not be Mighty Mouse in Wexford and Mickey Mouse in Dublin.
I am close to the leadership of this party. I have been health spokesperson. I am the Seanad Finance spokesperson. I want to be in government and I want to deliver for Co Wexford and work for this great country of ours.
That decision is now yours:
You can back me or sack me.
You have to decide.
Who is going to represent you in the next government,
I have what it takes.
I will deliver for this county and this country.
I want your vote,
I want your support,
And I want to be in the next government.
Thank You.
I was naive about the last election, politically, I made mistakes.
Before the last election, I travelled the whole country getting everyone else elected, but forgot about the words of Tip O’Neill, the famous Irish American congressman who said ‘All politics is local’.
That is one mistake I will not be repeating this time.
There is a perception that I can be shy, soft spoken, and not aggressive enough. Do not interpret this as a weakness. I have seen people die in front of me, that gives me the steely resolve I need as a doctor, it is also what this country and this campaign needs. This time we will have a good campaign.
I am committed to what Fine Gael stands for:
Decency, Honesty and a commitment to Public Service.
What about our friend Brian Lenihan?
1. In September 2008, he said,
The bank bail out was going to be the cheapest bailout in the history of the state.
Over 50 million down a black hole later was not the cheapest option.
2. Even by January 2009, he was saying,
Bailing out Anglo Bank Irish would only cost 4.5 Billion.
So far, we have spent 30 Billion on Anglo and the meter is still running.
3. On budget day last year,
The last sentence in his budget speech was
‘We have turned the corner’.
We have turned the corner alright;
We ran straight into a cement mixer with the registration plates, IMF 2011
4. As we all know in November of this year, according to the two nodding donkeys, Dempsey and Ahern, the IMF coming into Ireland was fiction.
In this month the IMF arrived.
Whether it is Brian Cowen or Brian Lenihan, when they speak, they no longer inspire confidence, in anyone who has to pay a mortgage,
they do not inspire confidence for the future, they make me worry about my children’s future.
This government has exported, DELL Computers to Poland, The Sugar Beet industry to Europe, Our Sovereignty to Germany.
De Valera, the poster boy for Fianna Fail once stated
‘Never again will we export our children like live exports’
How Fianna Fail has failed us: Our young carpenters, electricians, nurses, teachers, all our most valuable commodities, are destined, because of this government’s failure, for export again.
It is now our responsibility and our duty to turn this tide.
Now some people say, Liam Twomey, he is a national politician.
I know my way around the Department of Finance, the Department of Health, and the HSE, like I know my own home.
I have spoken to Olli Relin from the EU commission and to Ajai Cropra from the IMF about this useless government.
I know, what it is to be local,
it is about jobs,
it is about getting money to fix our roads;
it is about stopping the downgrade of our hospital.
It is about giving ourselves and our children a chance.
I will not be Mighty Mouse in Wexford and Mickey Mouse in Dublin.
I am close to the leadership of this party. I have been health spokesperson. I am the Seanad Finance spokesperson. I want to be in government and I want to deliver for Co Wexford and work for this great country of ours.
That decision is now yours:
You can back me or sack me.
You have to decide.
Who is going to represent you in the next government,
I have what it takes.
I will deliver for this county and this country.
I want your vote,
I want your support,
And I want to be in the next government.
Thank You.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Why have County Wexford roads fallen apart?
Dr. Liam Twomey calls for urgent action and an enquiry on why recently resurfaced roads fell apart during the recent cold spell.
The awful state of our roads after the recent sub zero temperatures must receive top political priority in the next few months stated Dr. Liam Twomey.
“The massive number of potholes and roads that are simply falling apart is unbelievable, I have reason to travel on a huge number of local roads from The Hook right up to Bunclody in the last three weeks, and we have a crisis on our hands. Some roads look like they have been bombed in a recent war and are beyond repair”.
There was fantastic work done by the council engineers and local authority workers. However, urgent actions are required to repair the damage.
Actions Dr. Twomey intends taking immediately include:
*Writing to Minister Gormley to ask for urgent funding to repair damaged roads and to take urgent remedial action to prevent further deterioration of more roads.
*Write to Minister Lenihan to ask him to divert funding from the NRA to local authorities to rapidly provide the funding that is needed for our non-national roads. He will also raise this issue with Minister Lenihan when they debate the Finance Bill in the Seanad.
*He will also contact his Fine Gael colleagues on the County Council and the relevant officials to see what can be done now to prevent damage to vehicles on our roads at huge cost to hard pressed individuals and businesses.
*He will also seek an inquiry from the council why some roads that were resurfaced in the last year or two and were meant to last for twenty years are now a crumbling mess. This inquiry must also give answers why sand and mud has broken through the surface of roads that were resurfaced in the last decade.
“These roads should have a bed of stone underneath, roads I have walked in the last few days have only sand under the surface tar, this makes no sense” said Dr. Twomey.
*The council must also take into account what measures will be taken in future to make future roads maintained more resistance to this type of weather.
Dr Twomey acknowledges that this problem will not be solved overnight. If elected to be part of the next Government, Dr. Twomey promises to work with his council colleagues to deal with this crisis as a matter of urgency.
The awful state of our roads after the recent sub zero temperatures must receive top political priority in the next few months stated Dr. Liam Twomey.
“The massive number of potholes and roads that are simply falling apart is unbelievable, I have reason to travel on a huge number of local roads from The Hook right up to Bunclody in the last three weeks, and we have a crisis on our hands. Some roads look like they have been bombed in a recent war and are beyond repair”.
There was fantastic work done by the council engineers and local authority workers. However, urgent actions are required to repair the damage.
Actions Dr. Twomey intends taking immediately include:
*Writing to Minister Gormley to ask for urgent funding to repair damaged roads and to take urgent remedial action to prevent further deterioration of more roads.
*Write to Minister Lenihan to ask him to divert funding from the NRA to local authorities to rapidly provide the funding that is needed for our non-national roads. He will also raise this issue with Minister Lenihan when they debate the Finance Bill in the Seanad.
*He will also contact his Fine Gael colleagues on the County Council and the relevant officials to see what can be done now to prevent damage to vehicles on our roads at huge cost to hard pressed individuals and businesses.
*He will also seek an inquiry from the council why some roads that were resurfaced in the last year or two and were meant to last for twenty years are now a crumbling mess. This inquiry must also give answers why sand and mud has broken through the surface of roads that were resurfaced in the last decade.
“These roads should have a bed of stone underneath, roads I have walked in the last few days have only sand under the surface tar, this makes no sense” said Dr. Twomey.
*The council must also take into account what measures will be taken in future to make future roads maintained more resistance to this type of weather.
Dr Twomey acknowledges that this problem will not be solved overnight. If elected to be part of the next Government, Dr. Twomey promises to work with his council colleagues to deal with this crisis as a matter of urgency.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
FINE GAEL COMMITTED TO WEXFORD HOSPITAL
Fine Gael’s Dr. Twomey was pleased to be able to facilitate Wexford General Hospital Community Alliance when Dr. McKiernan asked if he could help set up a meeting with the leader of Fine Gael, Enda Kenny and Fine Gael’s Health spokesperson, Dr. James Reilly.
Dr. Twomey said that the meeting went well. “Dr. McKiernan and Fr. Fegan wanted to be reassured that Fine Gael is committed to Wexford General Hospital and to keeping its A and E Department open and Enda and Dr. Reilly promised them that commitment. As Fine Gael may be leading the next government, it is important for the Alliance to know that we are on their side.”
“We in Fine Gael have a very different approach to Minister Harney and this government in providing health care. Our health policy is called Faircare and that is what it will be: a fair health care system for all. It puts the patient at the centre of the health system and patients will be seen based on medical need and not based on money. This policy will do away with the two tier system that has proven so unfair for patients in Wexford and throughout the country, over the years.”
Dr. Twomey added that he was again dismayed but not surprised that Wexford General Hospital had the second highest number of people on trolleys outside of Dublin this week. “Again this underlies the importance of Wexford General Hospital to the people of Wexford. Fine Gael realise how essential the current hospital services are and particularly the 24 hour A and E department. It is because of Fine Gael’s commitment to the hospital that Dr. Reilly is coming down on Monday 29 November 2010.”
Dr. Twomey pointed out “the government is not gone yet and the budget details still have to be announced. As long as Fianna Fail is in power, I will continue to fight to ensure that current services at Wexford General Hospital are maintained.”
Dr. Twomey said that the meeting went well. “Dr. McKiernan and Fr. Fegan wanted to be reassured that Fine Gael is committed to Wexford General Hospital and to keeping its A and E Department open and Enda and Dr. Reilly promised them that commitment. As Fine Gael may be leading the next government, it is important for the Alliance to know that we are on their side.”
“We in Fine Gael have a very different approach to Minister Harney and this government in providing health care. Our health policy is called Faircare and that is what it will be: a fair health care system for all. It puts the patient at the centre of the health system and patients will be seen based on medical need and not based on money. This policy will do away with the two tier system that has proven so unfair for patients in Wexford and throughout the country, over the years.”
Dr. Twomey added that he was again dismayed but not surprised that Wexford General Hospital had the second highest number of people on trolleys outside of Dublin this week. “Again this underlies the importance of Wexford General Hospital to the people of Wexford. Fine Gael realise how essential the current hospital services are and particularly the 24 hour A and E department. It is because of Fine Gael’s commitment to the hospital that Dr. Reilly is coming down on Monday 29 November 2010.”
Dr. Twomey pointed out “the government is not gone yet and the budget details still have to be announced. As long as Fianna Fail is in power, I will continue to fight to ensure that current services at Wexford General Hospital are maintained.”
Friday, November 12, 2010
QUESTIONS NEED TO BE ASKED ABOUT SUGAR FACTORY CLOSURE
Fine Gael’s Dr. Twomey wants Fianna Fail and its Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to explain why Ireland’s sugar beet industry was closed down, when the European Commission did not have the correct information. “According to the European Court of Auditor’s Report, when the Commission made it s proposal on sugar reform in 2005, they were unaware of Greencore's rationalisation /restructuring that had taken place leaving it with just one factory in Mallow.”
“The sugar beet industry was extremely important for Wexford farmers. When Greencore closed its factory in 2006 it ended eighty years of beet and sugar production in Ireland and affected 3,700 growers in Wexford and throughout the south east and southern areas of the country as well as the staff in Mallow and associated industries around the country. “
“The government have a number of questions to answer. It was up to the then Minister of Agriculture Mary Coughlan to give the Commission the correct information and defend the beet farmers and the sugar industry in Ireland. Fianna Fail are always saying that the smart economy is the way forward for Ireland but did they consider at the time that sugar can be used as a source of bioethanol or that sugar is also used by other chemical industries?”
“During the Celtic Tiger, Fianna Fail neglected Irish industry and agriculture in favour of construction with the result that Ireland is now importing €99 million worth of sugar annually into the country. According to Iarnrod Eireann, the loss of the sugar beet industry was also a cause of the railway line closure between Waterford and Rosslare, earlier this year.”
“Our agri-food industry produces exports worth €8 billion annually and provides 250,000 jobs throughout the country; therefore it is very important for the future of this country. For this reason, Fine Gael believes it is essential to make a strong case for Ireland to ensure good support from the EU will continue to be received under the Common Agricultural Policy, which is up for reform in 2013. Agriculture is an indigenous and well organised industry that continues to offer increased potential for Ireland. Fine Gael will do its best to protect Irish farmers unlike Fianna Fail with the sugar beet farmers in 2005.”
“The sugar beet industry was extremely important for Wexford farmers. When Greencore closed its factory in 2006 it ended eighty years of beet and sugar production in Ireland and affected 3,700 growers in Wexford and throughout the south east and southern areas of the country as well as the staff in Mallow and associated industries around the country. “
“The government have a number of questions to answer. It was up to the then Minister of Agriculture Mary Coughlan to give the Commission the correct information and defend the beet farmers and the sugar industry in Ireland. Fianna Fail are always saying that the smart economy is the way forward for Ireland but did they consider at the time that sugar can be used as a source of bioethanol or that sugar is also used by other chemical industries?”
“During the Celtic Tiger, Fianna Fail neglected Irish industry and agriculture in favour of construction with the result that Ireland is now importing €99 million worth of sugar annually into the country. According to Iarnrod Eireann, the loss of the sugar beet industry was also a cause of the railway line closure between Waterford and Rosslare, earlier this year.”
“Our agri-food industry produces exports worth €8 billion annually and provides 250,000 jobs throughout the country; therefore it is very important for the future of this country. For this reason, Fine Gael believes it is essential to make a strong case for Ireland to ensure good support from the EU will continue to be received under the Common Agricultural Policy, which is up for reform in 2013. Agriculture is an indigenous and well organised industry that continues to offer increased potential for Ireland. Fine Gael will do its best to protect Irish farmers unlike Fianna Fail with the sugar beet farmers in 2005.”
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
FAIRNESS NEEDED IN BUDGET
Fine Gael’s Dr. Liam Twomey has said that the target of €6 billion will bring the deficit to 9.5% of GDP. “Unfortunately with Fianna Fail and the Greens at the helm, the public have no confidence in them and they do not believe that the cuts will be felt by everyone across the board. The public feel that people at the lower end will be hit harder than those at the top. Fianna Fail does not believe that those who have the most should pay the most and we have seen this unfair policy in Minister Lenihan’s apparent obsession to protect Anglo Irish Bank against all the economic advice and to the detriment of everyone else in county Wexford and across the country.”
“With 18,372 unemployed in County Wexford, this figure will rise without a stimulus plan. This has not been part of Fianna Fail’s policy in the last couple of years and Minister Lenihan’s solution seems to be for 100,000 people to leave the country so that the live register figures will decrease. There are about 100,000 small businesses in Ireland and if the government could support them so that they can increase their workforce by just one then that would be an extra 100,000 people off the live register.”
“This government has let the people down and Minister Lenihan and his colleagues have not been telling us the truth about the figures. They have been drip feeding the bad news in the hope that they can dupe the public into thinking that Fianna Fail has their best interests at heart. Fianna Fail have not put the country first and we have seen this first hand in County Wexford with the closure of the Rosslare to Waterford line, and the continuous threat to our A & E, our maternity services and our mental health services. Fianna Fail allowed the construction sector to increase in an unsustainable manner while ignoring our manufacturing industries and farming and this was felt most acutely in county Wexford. “
“With Fianna Fail running out of ideas, we need a Fine Gael led government with Ministers from County Wexford who will ensure that all our services will be maintained for the people of county Wexford.”
“With 18,372 unemployed in County Wexford, this figure will rise without a stimulus plan. This has not been part of Fianna Fail’s policy in the last couple of years and Minister Lenihan’s solution seems to be for 100,000 people to leave the country so that the live register figures will decrease. There are about 100,000 small businesses in Ireland and if the government could support them so that they can increase their workforce by just one then that would be an extra 100,000 people off the live register.”
“This government has let the people down and Minister Lenihan and his colleagues have not been telling us the truth about the figures. They have been drip feeding the bad news in the hope that they can dupe the public into thinking that Fianna Fail has their best interests at heart. Fianna Fail have not put the country first and we have seen this first hand in County Wexford with the closure of the Rosslare to Waterford line, and the continuous threat to our A & E, our maternity services and our mental health services. Fianna Fail allowed the construction sector to increase in an unsustainable manner while ignoring our manufacturing industries and farming and this was felt most acutely in county Wexford. “
“With Fianna Fail running out of ideas, we need a Fine Gael led government with Ministers from County Wexford who will ensure that all our services will be maintained for the people of county Wexford.”
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
MORE SHOULD BE DONE FOR APPRENTICES
Dr. Twomey has highlighted the situation of up to 300 apprentices in county Wexford to the Minister for Education and Skills in the Seanad last week. “These apprentices are not in a position to complete their apprenticeship training because they are no longer working for the employer to whom they would have expected to return following their spell in college. It is estimated that approximately 7,000 individuals throughout the country are in limbo in terms of not being able to complete their apprenticeship training, mostly electricians, carpenters and others involved in the construction industry which is experiencing a massive downturn. There is a need for the Government to take more action to ensure these individuals to finish their apprenticeships as soon as possible. If they were able to do so, it would, at least, give them an opportunity to travel abroad to seek work and make a living for themselves.”
“FAS has the funds to provide a weekly subsidy of €250 for their employers towards employment costs, so the Minister should be looking at placing them in areas that would not have traditionally taken on such apprentices, such as the Army / the Navy and Local Authorities. There is a fear that the Unions may be blocking the apprentices finishing their apprenticeships as the Unions want them to earn €600 per week in their final year but this is not sustainable. It is more important to facilitate these young people to complete their apprenticeships. “
“If these apprentices were college students and the Government closed down the institution at which they were studying, there would be uproar if they were prevented from completing their courses because this would jeopardise their chances of obtaining employment either here or abroad. The Government needs to do more and at a faster rate. FAS has the resources so they should be working as quickly as possible help these apprentices.”
“FAS has the funds to provide a weekly subsidy of €250 for their employers towards employment costs, so the Minister should be looking at placing them in areas that would not have traditionally taken on such apprentices, such as the Army / the Navy and Local Authorities. There is a fear that the Unions may be blocking the apprentices finishing their apprenticeships as the Unions want them to earn €600 per week in their final year but this is not sustainable. It is more important to facilitate these young people to complete their apprenticeships. “
“If these apprentices were college students and the Government closed down the institution at which they were studying, there would be uproar if they were prevented from completing their courses because this would jeopardise their chances of obtaining employment either here or abroad. The Government needs to do more and at a faster rate. FAS has the resources so they should be working as quickly as possible help these apprentices.”
Friday, September 24, 2010
WEXFORD GENERAL HOSPITAL FUTURE UNDER THREAT
Dr. Liam Twomey warns that the leaked HSE document on the reconfiguration of health services in the South East is putting patients lives at risk and makes access to healthcare harder for thousands of patients.
Leaked documents from the HSE indicate that the HSE only supports the retention of two major hospitals in the South East. These two hospitals at Waterford Regional Hospital and St. Luke’s in Kilkenny, are only 30 minutes apart via the new motorway.
In contrast, Wexford Hospital is over an hour away from either hospital and serves a catchment area of 150,000 people, larger than any other county in the South East. The HSE document indicates that Wexford will only have 12 hour Urgent Care, no acute surgery and no maternity services. Taking into account the imminent closure of St. Senan’s psychiatric hospital in County Wexford next year and no significant investment in either primary care or the ambulance services, the HSE stand accused of dismantling the health services in the South East with Wexford being seriously affected.
There is already growing concern by patients and doctors that Waterford Regional Hospital is failing to deliver health services in an appropriate manner.
Waiting times for ENT (Ear Nose and Throat), Orthopaedic (bones) and Urology (prostate/bladder problem) Outpatients is at least two years and up to four years. The HSE’s failure to deliver these services in a timely manner is unacceptable. The HSE’s long term plan as outlined in the leaked document will cost patients their lives and lead to more problems with delayed diagnosis.
The HSE’s failure to maintain services at the appropriate level at Wexford General Hospital is alarming. Between 20 -30 patients have been on trolleys on numerous occasions during the summer months. Up to 30 nurses are on maternity leave and have not been replaced leading to reduction of services at the Hospital. The Hospital budget has been cut by 11 million in the last 3 years.
As Fine Gael spokesperson on Health and Children from 2004-2007, I watched with dismay the botched reconfiguration of the North East; I now see the same flawed thinking being applied to the South East.
Leaked documents from the HSE indicate that the HSE only supports the retention of two major hospitals in the South East. These two hospitals at Waterford Regional Hospital and St. Luke’s in Kilkenny, are only 30 minutes apart via the new motorway.
In contrast, Wexford Hospital is over an hour away from either hospital and serves a catchment area of 150,000 people, larger than any other county in the South East. The HSE document indicates that Wexford will only have 12 hour Urgent Care, no acute surgery and no maternity services. Taking into account the imminent closure of St. Senan’s psychiatric hospital in County Wexford next year and no significant investment in either primary care or the ambulance services, the HSE stand accused of dismantling the health services in the South East with Wexford being seriously affected.
There is already growing concern by patients and doctors that Waterford Regional Hospital is failing to deliver health services in an appropriate manner.
Waiting times for ENT (Ear Nose and Throat), Orthopaedic (bones) and Urology (prostate/bladder problem) Outpatients is at least two years and up to four years. The HSE’s failure to deliver these services in a timely manner is unacceptable. The HSE’s long term plan as outlined in the leaked document will cost patients their lives and lead to more problems with delayed diagnosis.
The HSE’s failure to maintain services at the appropriate level at Wexford General Hospital is alarming. Between 20 -30 patients have been on trolleys on numerous occasions during the summer months. Up to 30 nurses are on maternity leave and have not been replaced leading to reduction of services at the Hospital. The Hospital budget has been cut by 11 million in the last 3 years.
As Fine Gael spokesperson on Health and Children from 2004-2007, I watched with dismay the botched reconfiguration of the North East; I now see the same flawed thinking being applied to the South East.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
WEXFORD BUSINESSES SUFFER BECAUSE OF FF
Dr. Liam Twomey of Fine Gael said that he is not surprised by the Global Competitiveness Index report, which found that Irish competitiveness declined again over the last 12 months, falling from 25th to 29th overall. “
“When you look behind our rating of 29th in the world, we find that our rating is even lower in some areas; for example in wastefulness of government spending we are 93rd, in transport and infrastructure we are 53rd. Our nearest English speaking neighbour, the UK, is 12th for competitiveness overall while six European countries are in the top 10 with Switzerland and Sweden in 1st and 2nd place respectively.”
“It is no surprise that our competitiveness has not improved. State imposed costs as well as trouble in accessing credit are some of the biggest problems facing businesses and they impact negatively on competiveness. Wexford County Councillors were successful in ensuring that commercial rates were not raised this year. Despite this, we have seen businesses close in Wexford and it is because this government fails to realise the impact this recession is having on businesses. They have not supported businesses since the beginning of this recession and they have recently implemented increases in electricity, petrol and diesel with the carbon tax and the energy levy which shows their lack of understanding of our current situation. Without a comprehensive government plan, our competiveness will continue to decline, making us a very unattractive prospect, not only for international and local businesses but also for tourists.”
“When you look behind our rating of 29th in the world, we find that our rating is even lower in some areas; for example in wastefulness of government spending we are 93rd, in transport and infrastructure we are 53rd. Our nearest English speaking neighbour, the UK, is 12th for competitiveness overall while six European countries are in the top 10 with Switzerland and Sweden in 1st and 2nd place respectively.”
“It is no surprise that our competitiveness has not improved. State imposed costs as well as trouble in accessing credit are some of the biggest problems facing businesses and they impact negatively on competiveness. Wexford County Councillors were successful in ensuring that commercial rates were not raised this year. Despite this, we have seen businesses close in Wexford and it is because this government fails to realise the impact this recession is having on businesses. They have not supported businesses since the beginning of this recession and they have recently implemented increases in electricity, petrol and diesel with the carbon tax and the energy levy which shows their lack of understanding of our current situation. Without a comprehensive government plan, our competiveness will continue to decline, making us a very unattractive prospect, not only for international and local businesses but also for tourists.”
CONCERN ABOUT WEXFORD’S HEALTH SERVICES
Fine Gael’s Dr. Liam Twomey said that he is concerned about the lack of funding for health services especially mental health. “In July, Fianna Fail announced that health’s capital spending would be slashed by €2.2 billion, with a possible €1billion cut in current spending. Wexford can see the impact of last year’s budget cuts with approximately 25 people having to suffer the indignity of lying on trolleys in the hospital nearly every day during the summer, since the closure of St. Aidan’s Ward.”
“As well as this, the HSE Assistant National Director of Mental Health said yesterday (Thursday) that no new money has been provided for mental health services this year. No new money was provided in 2008 and only €3million was provided in 2009. It is unlikely that any extra money will be provided next year. This is despite Fianna Fail’s promise of giving €21million to Mental Health services each year for a period of seven years in ‘A Vision for Change’ launched in 2006. It was also expected that €50 million would be realised from the sale of old hospital sites. However it is clear that due to the poor property market, this figure will not be reached.”
“I am concerned about these figures as we were told earlier this year that St. Senan’s would close in February 2011. Because of the mess that Fianna Fail has made of the economy, Minister Moloney also told us that there was no money to build a Mental Health Unit at Wexford General Hospital but he did promise that comprehensive Mental Health Community Services would be put in place. However, due to the moratorium on recruitment, over 700 staff left mental healthcare in 2009 and only 65 were replaced. This is putting huge pressure on all services and this, plus the budget cuts, plus the lack of implementation of ‘A Vision for Change’ makes me worried about Fianna Fail’s commitment to providing good mental health services in county Wexford. If this government fails to honour their commitments to the Mental Health Services, in County Wexford, the people of County Wexford must stand up for this very vulnerable sector in our county.
“As well as this, the HSE Assistant National Director of Mental Health said yesterday (Thursday) that no new money has been provided for mental health services this year. No new money was provided in 2008 and only €3million was provided in 2009. It is unlikely that any extra money will be provided next year. This is despite Fianna Fail’s promise of giving €21million to Mental Health services each year for a period of seven years in ‘A Vision for Change’ launched in 2006. It was also expected that €50 million would be realised from the sale of old hospital sites. However it is clear that due to the poor property market, this figure will not be reached.”
“I am concerned about these figures as we were told earlier this year that St. Senan’s would close in February 2011. Because of the mess that Fianna Fail has made of the economy, Minister Moloney also told us that there was no money to build a Mental Health Unit at Wexford General Hospital but he did promise that comprehensive Mental Health Community Services would be put in place. However, due to the moratorium on recruitment, over 700 staff left mental healthcare in 2009 and only 65 were replaced. This is putting huge pressure on all services and this, plus the budget cuts, plus the lack of implementation of ‘A Vision for Change’ makes me worried about Fianna Fail’s commitment to providing good mental health services in county Wexford. If this government fails to honour their commitments to the Mental Health Services, in County Wexford, the people of County Wexford must stand up for this very vulnerable sector in our county.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Dr. Twomey welcomes new roundabout at Ashfield Cross
Dr Liam Twomey is delighted that the NRA has begun work on a new roundabout at Ashfield Cross. “One of the most traumatic days of my own medical career in Co Wexford, was when I attended a road traffic accident in August of 2003, where two small children died. I know that this had a profound effect on everyone who attended the accident.
I know it was extremely upsetting for Ambulance crews, Firemen and Gardai who like the other Doctor and Nurses present, thought they had seen it all in their careers.”
“There have been other accidents at this site, where lives have been lost and people injured. I hope when this work is completed, we won’t see these tragedies again. I will call on the Government to make funding available to upgrade our secondary roads, to reduce the risk of accidents that have such an awful effect on families when lives are lost.”
I know it was extremely upsetting for Ambulance crews, Firemen and Gardai who like the other Doctor and Nurses present, thought they had seen it all in their careers.”
“There have been other accidents at this site, where lives have been lost and people injured. I hope when this work is completed, we won’t see these tragedies again. I will call on the Government to make funding available to upgrade our secondary roads, to reduce the risk of accidents that have such an awful effect on families when lives are lost.”
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
WEXFORD FAIRING BADLY IN THE CAPITAL SPENDING PROGRAMME
Fine Gael’s Dr. Twomey is disappointed by the lack of vision in the capital expenditure programme launched at the end of July by the Fianna Fail government. “This programme is not a stimulus package and unfortunately will not do what the government claims it will do - get people back working.”
“County Wexford needs to get its people back to work. In June there were nearly 19,000 on the live register. If we compare this figure to the same period in 2008, the numbers on the live register have doubled or more than doubled for each of the towns in County Wexford. 21% of those on the live register are under 25 and a lot of these would have worked in construction. However the biggest, most expensive construction projects proposed in the capital programme seem to be concentrated in the Dublin area with Metro North and the relocation of Dublin Institute of Technology.”
“The government should take a more regional approach, targeting the worst regions with the highest need. Our Fianna Fail TDs in County Wexford should be highlighting Wexford’s problems to the government to ensure that we get all the help we need. For example, earlier in the year the government launched the Labour Market Activation Fund (€20 million) which was set up to provide about 3,500 training places for the low skilled, the under 35’s and those formerly employed in the construction, retail and manufacturing sectors. However County Wexford did not receive any of this funding and indeed County Carlow was the only county in the South East to get any funding at all.”
“I want the government to realise how much pressure people in county Wexford are under and how worried they are about keeping their jobs and their homes.”
“County Wexford needs to get its people back to work. In June there were nearly 19,000 on the live register. If we compare this figure to the same period in 2008, the numbers on the live register have doubled or more than doubled for each of the towns in County Wexford. 21% of those on the live register are under 25 and a lot of these would have worked in construction. However the biggest, most expensive construction projects proposed in the capital programme seem to be concentrated in the Dublin area with Metro North and the relocation of Dublin Institute of Technology.”
“The government should take a more regional approach, targeting the worst regions with the highest need. Our Fianna Fail TDs in County Wexford should be highlighting Wexford’s problems to the government to ensure that we get all the help we need. For example, earlier in the year the government launched the Labour Market Activation Fund (€20 million) which was set up to provide about 3,500 training places for the low skilled, the under 35’s and those formerly employed in the construction, retail and manufacturing sectors. However County Wexford did not receive any of this funding and indeed County Carlow was the only county in the South East to get any funding at all.”
“I want the government to realise how much pressure people in county Wexford are under and how worried they are about keeping their jobs and their homes.”
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
ANGER OVER NEW MOTORWAY IS UNDERSTANDABLE
Fine Gael’s Dr. Liam Twomey has said that he is not surprised about how fearful and angry people are with the proposed N11/N25 Oylegate to Enniscorthy motorway. “People are fearful because some of the routes are near schools and will divide farms and communities. However no decision has been made yet so communities getting together and making their voice heard is very important in the public consultation process.”
“Looking at the figures for the past ten years, during the Celtic Tiger, expenditure on road improvements and maintenance in County Wexford was 210 million. Now when the government has no money and there are plans to cut capital expenditure, we are expected to believe that over 1 billion euros will be spent in the next five years on the New Ross and Enniscorthy bypasses as well as projects on the N11 just north of County Wexford in Wicklow and the N11/N25 project. I am sceptical that this project will go ahead because I was told in 2003 that the Rosslare Harbour Access route would be completed by 2010. This would have cost only 30 million and it has still not been built.”
“We need to be realistic about this proposed motorway. If in the past decade, the NRA did not have the 30 million for the Harbour access route and only spent a total of 210 million in county Wexford in a decade, what are the prospects of this government spending 1,200 million in County Wexford or just north of county Wexford at a time when this country does not have money to throw around. I am asking this question, not because I am against improving the infrastructure of county Wexford but I do not want the stress and concern that the people of Wexford affected by the final route chosen will feel, over what might turn out to be another big announcement that might never happen. The responsibility for telling the truth to the people of county Wexford lies not just with the NRA but also with our government representatives.”
“Looking at the figures for the past ten years, during the Celtic Tiger, expenditure on road improvements and maintenance in County Wexford was 210 million. Now when the government has no money and there are plans to cut capital expenditure, we are expected to believe that over 1 billion euros will be spent in the next five years on the New Ross and Enniscorthy bypasses as well as projects on the N11 just north of County Wexford in Wicklow and the N11/N25 project. I am sceptical that this project will go ahead because I was told in 2003 that the Rosslare Harbour Access route would be completed by 2010. This would have cost only 30 million and it has still not been built.”
“We need to be realistic about this proposed motorway. If in the past decade, the NRA did not have the 30 million for the Harbour access route and only spent a total of 210 million in county Wexford in a decade, what are the prospects of this government spending 1,200 million in County Wexford or just north of county Wexford at a time when this country does not have money to throw around. I am asking this question, not because I am against improving the infrastructure of county Wexford but I do not want the stress and concern that the people of Wexford affected by the final route chosen will feel, over what might turn out to be another big announcement that might never happen. The responsibility for telling the truth to the people of county Wexford lies not just with the NRA but also with our government representatives.”
TOURISM UNDER PRESSURE
Dr. Liam Twomey, Finance Spokesperson in the Seanad has welcomed Minister Mary Hanafin’s promise to meet with NAMA to discuss the hotel sector. “The Minister does need to meet with NAMA as it seems that unviable hotels are being kept afloat artificially by being included in NAMA thereby putting more pressure on smaller, family run hotels.”
“There is currently an overcapacity of rooms in Ireland as 25,000 rooms, (40% of the total) were built in the last ten years and therefore it is these “zombie hotels” that are being propped up by NAMA and the tax payer. Despite a decrease in prices, the tourist industry estimates that 45% of rooms are empty on a weekly basis. The Irish Tourist Industry Confederation has shown that expenditure in tourism has fallen to below 2003 levels and that there was a 20% drop in bednights last year. The outlook for 2010 suggests a further reduction in visitors with at least 1.5 million less visitors than three years ago.”
“The tourist industry has been hit hard by the recession and there are fears from those in the industry that market conditions will remain unstable. Tourism is an important part of county Wexford’s economy. Tourist numbers are down, including British tourists due to the travel tax and our reputation of being a poor “value for money” destination. Even though the value has improved, a decrease in the VAT rate on food and accommodation, as proposed at this month’s Borough Council Meeting, would also help to give Ireland’s tourists better value for money.”
“There is currently an overcapacity of rooms in Ireland as 25,000 rooms, (40% of the total) were built in the last ten years and therefore it is these “zombie hotels” that are being propped up by NAMA and the tax payer. Despite a decrease in prices, the tourist industry estimates that 45% of rooms are empty on a weekly basis. The Irish Tourist Industry Confederation has shown that expenditure in tourism has fallen to below 2003 levels and that there was a 20% drop in bednights last year. The outlook for 2010 suggests a further reduction in visitors with at least 1.5 million less visitors than three years ago.”
“The tourist industry has been hit hard by the recession and there are fears from those in the industry that market conditions will remain unstable. Tourism is an important part of county Wexford’s economy. Tourist numbers are down, including British tourists due to the travel tax and our reputation of being a poor “value for money” destination. Even though the value has improved, a decrease in the VAT rate on food and accommodation, as proposed at this month’s Borough Council Meeting, would also help to give Ireland’s tourists better value for money.”
TWOMEY CONCERNED BY CUT IN HEALTH BUDGET
Fine Gael’s Dr. Liam Twomey is concerned by the announcement made by the Minister for Health and Children lsast Thursday that the budget cuts in December will seriously affect the health service throughout the country. “As we know the government must find savings of 3 billion in next year’s budget. As Health makes up 27% of the entire annual government expenditure, the Minister expects that a sizeable portion of the 3 billion savings will come from Health.”
“This year the Health Budget was cut by 1 billion and this resulted in many bed and ward closures throughout the countries’ hospitals resulting in longer waiting lists and a large number of patients on trolleys. In Wexford General Hospital, there were a number of acute bed closures during the year and the closure of St. Aidan’s 25 bed ward during the summer. This has resulted in people being instructed not to go to the A & E in Wexford last week due to the large number of patients on trolleys, with 22 people on trolleys on Friday mornings. Cuts of 600 million are expected next year and could be as much as 750 million. Therefore, we must continue to fight to retain our 24 hour A & E service.”
“The government have had a one dimensional approach to improving the country’s finances – they have only cut expenditure and have spent money on the banks, with no effort to generate funds. They have taken the easy option and have continued to target the most vulnerable areas. As Minister for Health, Mary Harney should be fighting as hard as possible for her Department’s budget to be maintained to ensure that patients get the quality of services that they need.”
“This year the Health Budget was cut by 1 billion and this resulted in many bed and ward closures throughout the countries’ hospitals resulting in longer waiting lists and a large number of patients on trolleys. In Wexford General Hospital, there were a number of acute bed closures during the year and the closure of St. Aidan’s 25 bed ward during the summer. This has resulted in people being instructed not to go to the A & E in Wexford last week due to the large number of patients on trolleys, with 22 people on trolleys on Friday mornings. Cuts of 600 million are expected next year and could be as much as 750 million. Therefore, we must continue to fight to retain our 24 hour A & E service.”
“The government have had a one dimensional approach to improving the country’s finances – they have only cut expenditure and have spent money on the banks, with no effort to generate funds. They have taken the easy option and have continued to target the most vulnerable areas. As Minister for Health, Mary Harney should be fighting as hard as possible for her Department’s budget to be maintained to ensure that patients get the quality of services that they need.”
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
FARMERS LOSE OUT
Fine Gael’s Dr. Liam Twomey said that a Eurostat survey has revealed that Irish food prices in 2009 were the second highest in the EU. “At the same time that Irish food prices are high, farmers have been hit by very difficult market conditions in the past year with farm incomes decreasing. A report from Teagasc last month confirmed that farm incomes in 2009 fell by 30% from 2008 figures and in 2008, farm income had already taken a 10% decrease.”
“While food prices are high, it seems that the retailers are the only ones who are gaining from it – the house holder buying the food and the farmer selling the food are both losing out. We are still waiting on the government to introduce a supermarket ombudsman to ensure fairness and transparency in this sector. Tesco, Superquinn and Lidl are opposed to an ombudsman for the supermarket sector as they claim that it would result in an increase in the cost of food for the consumer.” Dr. Twomey acknowledged that there are high costs for doing business in Ireland such as water rates, insurance and electricity but the concern is that excessive profits are being taken.”
Dr. Twomey said that the main point is that farmers’ prices are below the EU average while the food costs are one of the highest in Europe. ”Why is this case in Ireland? This discrepancy in the farmers’ price and the end user cost cannot be allowed to continue. For example the supermarkets currently charge milk at 6 times the cost paid to farmers. We in Fine Gael have published proposals that will bring a level of transparency and hence protection for farmers in a supermarket sector that is shrouded in secrecy and in poor business practices and we will continue to put pressure on the government to improve the situation.”
“While food prices are high, it seems that the retailers are the only ones who are gaining from it – the house holder buying the food and the farmer selling the food are both losing out. We are still waiting on the government to introduce a supermarket ombudsman to ensure fairness and transparency in this sector. Tesco, Superquinn and Lidl are opposed to an ombudsman for the supermarket sector as they claim that it would result in an increase in the cost of food for the consumer.” Dr. Twomey acknowledged that there are high costs for doing business in Ireland such as water rates, insurance and electricity but the concern is that excessive profits are being taken.”
Dr. Twomey said that the main point is that farmers’ prices are below the EU average while the food costs are one of the highest in Europe. ”Why is this case in Ireland? This discrepancy in the farmers’ price and the end user cost cannot be allowed to continue. For example the supermarkets currently charge milk at 6 times the cost paid to farmers. We in Fine Gael have published proposals that will bring a level of transparency and hence protection for farmers in a supermarket sector that is shrouded in secrecy and in poor business practices and we will continue to put pressure on the government to improve the situation.”
FARMERS LOSE OUT
Fine Gael’s Dr. Liam Twomey said that a Eurostat survey has revealed that Irish food prices in 2009 were the second highest in the EU. “At the same time that Irish food prices are high, farmers have been hit by very difficult market conditions in the past year with farm incomes decreasing. A report from Teagasc last month confirmed that farm incomes in 2009 fell by 30% from 2008 figures and in 2008, farm income had already taken a 10% decrease.”
“While food prices are high, it seems that the retailers are the only ones who are gaining from it – the house holder buying the food and the farmer selling the food are both losing out. We are still waiting on the government to introduce a supermarket ombudsman to ensure fairness and transparency in this sector. Tesco, Superquinn and Lidl are opposed to an ombudsman for the supermarket sector as they claim that it would result in an increase in the cost of food for the consumer.” Dr. Twomey acknowledged that there are high costs for doing business in Ireland such as water rates, insurance and electricity but the concern is that excessive profits are being taken.”
Dr. Twomey said that the main point is that farmers’ prices are below the EU average while the food costs are one of the highest in Europe. ”Why is this case in Ireland? This discrepancy in the farmers’ price and the end user cost cannot be allowed to continue. For example the supermarkets currently charge milk at 6 times the cost paid to farmers. We in Fine Gael have published proposals that will bring a level of transparency and hence protection for farmers in a supermarket sector that is shrouded in secrecy and in poor business practices and we will continue to put pressure on the government to improve the situation.”
“While food prices are high, it seems that the retailers are the only ones who are gaining from it – the house holder buying the food and the farmer selling the food are both losing out. We are still waiting on the government to introduce a supermarket ombudsman to ensure fairness and transparency in this sector. Tesco, Superquinn and Lidl are opposed to an ombudsman for the supermarket sector as they claim that it would result in an increase in the cost of food for the consumer.” Dr. Twomey acknowledged that there are high costs for doing business in Ireland such as water rates, insurance and electricity but the concern is that excessive profits are being taken.”
Dr. Twomey said that the main point is that farmers’ prices are below the EU average while the food costs are one of the highest in Europe. ”Why is this case in Ireland? This discrepancy in the farmers’ price and the end user cost cannot be allowed to continue. For example the supermarkets currently charge milk at 6 times the cost paid to farmers. We in Fine Gael have published proposals that will bring a level of transparency and hence protection for farmers in a supermarket sector that is shrouded in secrecy and in poor business practices and we will continue to put pressure on the government to improve the situation.”
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
RESPITE CARE SERVICES MUST BE KEPT
Fine Gael’s Dr. Liam Twomey said that he does not believe the Taoiseach’s claims when he said that there will be no cuts to front line services for those with disabilities because families have seen these services cut since January and budgets are expected to be cut further next year.
“Since the beginning of the downturn, this Fianna Fail government has consistently made cuts in areas where there is the greatest need e.g. cuts in Social Welfare, cuts in essential hospital services and cuts for those with disabilities and we in county Wexford have seen all of these cuts at first hand. At the same time, people’s perception is that the cuts are unfair because those at the top like the developers and bankers have been protected and this is resulting in alot of public anger.”
“As a result of this anger, people marched in Dublin and Galway on Wednesday in protest at cuts in respite care services. The government must realise that families with loved ones that have disabilities are under constant pressure and stress and need the voluntary respite care services to help them to cope in caring for their family members.”
“However, we know that there is waste at every level in the HSE. The Chief Executive of the HSE Corporate body told Fine Gael that there are 2,500 people who do not know what their jobs are. Despite this, there will be no redundancies in the HSE at this level. Therefore it is essential that HSE officials, when looking at ways to decrease costs start at the top and look at areas of waste, not at front line services. Respite care is essential in improving the quality of life for both the carers and those who are mentally or physically disabled and we are lucky in county Wexford to have good facilities providing excellent care. I will continue to put pressure on the government to ensure that respite care services are not cut.”
“Since the beginning of the downturn, this Fianna Fail government has consistently made cuts in areas where there is the greatest need e.g. cuts in Social Welfare, cuts in essential hospital services and cuts for those with disabilities and we in county Wexford have seen all of these cuts at first hand. At the same time, people’s perception is that the cuts are unfair because those at the top like the developers and bankers have been protected and this is resulting in alot of public anger.”
“As a result of this anger, people marched in Dublin and Galway on Wednesday in protest at cuts in respite care services. The government must realise that families with loved ones that have disabilities are under constant pressure and stress and need the voluntary respite care services to help them to cope in caring for their family members.”
“However, we know that there is waste at every level in the HSE. The Chief Executive of the HSE Corporate body told Fine Gael that there are 2,500 people who do not know what their jobs are. Despite this, there will be no redundancies in the HSE at this level. Therefore it is essential that HSE officials, when looking at ways to decrease costs start at the top and look at areas of waste, not at front line services. Respite care is essential in improving the quality of life for both the carers and those who are mentally or physically disabled and we are lucky in county Wexford to have good facilities providing excellent care. I will continue to put pressure on the government to ensure that respite care services are not cut.”
HSE PROPOSALS DESERVE DEBATE
Fine Gael’s Dr. Liam Twomey met with Minister Moloney and HSE officials on 8th July in relation to an acute psychiatric admissions unit in Wexford General Hospital.
“The HSE do not support an acute admission unit for County Wexford. The HSE wants to develop community services in County Wexford. The plan they have outlined to me is:
· Two day hospitals, one in Wexford town and one in Gorey
· Expanded community clinics and long care facilities in Enniscorthy and New Ross
· Increase in multi-disciplinary community care teams to treat patients at home
· Additional staff to treat patients in County Wexford."
“The HSE expects their proposals to reduce in-patient admissions by a half when fully implemented. Unfortunately it will mean that patients who need in-patient treatment will have to travel to Waterford Hospital which will be upgraded.”
“The HSE will publish its plan in September, outlining a timeframe and budget to implement this plan. In the meantime I hope to have discussions with patients, staff and HSE officials to get their views on the HSE plan.”
“I want to make sure that this plan is best for patients. If the HSE closes St. Senan’s, we must ensure that these new proposals are in place first. The likelihood of a small acute admission unit is slim, the HSE feels that such a unit is unviable from a patient care or financial point of view.”
“If the HSE fulfil their promise to implement this plan, and if the medical evidence to support their plan stacks up, we may see a 21st century mental health service for County Wexford. The full implementation of this plan would see a broader range of healthcare professionals looking after Wexford people with mental health problems.”
“The HSE must show that this plan will:
1. Be better for patient care
2. Maintain the present healthcare staff and expand the number of healthcare professionals in County Wexford’s Mental
Health Services.
3. Ensure that all staff in St. Senan’s can work in the new facilities.”
“I have a lot of experience of the mental health service in County Wexford. I have seen the improvements that community psychiatry can deliver to patients. It is now time for all of us to take ownership of the proposed changes to make sure that we get the best mental health service for County Wexford.”
“The HSE do not support an acute admission unit for County Wexford. The HSE wants to develop community services in County Wexford. The plan they have outlined to me is:
· Two day hospitals, one in Wexford town and one in Gorey
· Expanded community clinics and long care facilities in Enniscorthy and New Ross
· Increase in multi-disciplinary community care teams to treat patients at home
· Additional staff to treat patients in County Wexford."
“The HSE expects their proposals to reduce in-patient admissions by a half when fully implemented. Unfortunately it will mean that patients who need in-patient treatment will have to travel to Waterford Hospital which will be upgraded.”
“The HSE will publish its plan in September, outlining a timeframe and budget to implement this plan. In the meantime I hope to have discussions with patients, staff and HSE officials to get their views on the HSE plan.”
“I want to make sure that this plan is best for patients. If the HSE closes St. Senan’s, we must ensure that these new proposals are in place first. The likelihood of a small acute admission unit is slim, the HSE feels that such a unit is unviable from a patient care or financial point of view.”
“If the HSE fulfil their promise to implement this plan, and if the medical evidence to support their plan stacks up, we may see a 21st century mental health service for County Wexford. The full implementation of this plan would see a broader range of healthcare professionals looking after Wexford people with mental health problems.”
“The HSE must show that this plan will:
1. Be better for patient care
2. Maintain the present healthcare staff and expand the number of healthcare professionals in County Wexford’s Mental
Health Services.
3. Ensure that all staff in St. Senan’s can work in the new facilities.”
“I have a lot of experience of the mental health service in County Wexford. I have seen the improvements that community psychiatry can deliver to patients. It is now time for all of us to take ownership of the proposed changes to make sure that we get the best mental health service for County Wexford.”
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
WEXFORD HOSPITAL IS UNDER INCREASING THREAT
Fine Gael’s Dr. Twomey is concerned that County Wexford’s health services are coming under an increasing threat from the HSE.
“We now not only have patients on trolleys at Wexford General Hospital every day but we also have ward closures and our maternity services are under pressure as well. While the transformation programme seems to have stalled for the moment, Wexford people are still fearful of losing out to Waterford and Kilkenny.”
“The latest discussions in relation to health services in the South East, involve the setting up of what is called Integrated Service Areas (ISAs). The plan so far is for Carlow/Kilkenny and Clonmel to form one shared ISA and for Waterford and Wexford to form another. “
Dr. Twomey believes that this approach is completely unsuitable for County Wexford for a number of reasons. “Firstly, with the new motorway, Kilkenny is closer to Waterford than Wexford. Secondly, if Carlow, Kilkenny and South Tipperary become one ISA, their population, at 221,000, is 18,000 less than the combined Wexford / Waterford population. In addition, South Tipperary patients will be able to go to other hospitals in Munster, thus easing the load in this ISA. However amalgamation with Waterford will not work for Wexford as North Wexford people will go to the nearer, but already overcrowded, Dublin hospitals.”
“From a practical medical viewpoint, the number of people that Waterford would be expected to treat would be unworkable. Wexford’s population increases by about 40 to 50,000 during the summer, and it is at the junction for the major road routes from Europe and the UK. So what I believe is required is for Wexford County and parts of Wicklow to be one ISA. This would be far more sustainable in the long term and beneficial to the people of both County Wexford and Wicklow.”
“Unfortunately, the HSE continues to make decisions based on politics and not on the best outcomes for patients and I urge the HSE and the Minister for Health and Children, Mary Harney to look at the patients behind the statistics, before making a final decision on this issue.”
“We now not only have patients on trolleys at Wexford General Hospital every day but we also have ward closures and our maternity services are under pressure as well. While the transformation programme seems to have stalled for the moment, Wexford people are still fearful of losing out to Waterford and Kilkenny.”
“The latest discussions in relation to health services in the South East, involve the setting up of what is called Integrated Service Areas (ISAs). The plan so far is for Carlow/Kilkenny and Clonmel to form one shared ISA and for Waterford and Wexford to form another. “
Dr. Twomey believes that this approach is completely unsuitable for County Wexford for a number of reasons. “Firstly, with the new motorway, Kilkenny is closer to Waterford than Wexford. Secondly, if Carlow, Kilkenny and South Tipperary become one ISA, their population, at 221,000, is 18,000 less than the combined Wexford / Waterford population. In addition, South Tipperary patients will be able to go to other hospitals in Munster, thus easing the load in this ISA. However amalgamation with Waterford will not work for Wexford as North Wexford people will go to the nearer, but already overcrowded, Dublin hospitals.”
“From a practical medical viewpoint, the number of people that Waterford would be expected to treat would be unworkable. Wexford’s population increases by about 40 to 50,000 during the summer, and it is at the junction for the major road routes from Europe and the UK. So what I believe is required is for Wexford County and parts of Wicklow to be one ISA. This would be far more sustainable in the long term and beneficial to the people of both County Wexford and Wicklow.”
“Unfortunately, the HSE continues to make decisions based on politics and not on the best outcomes for patients and I urge the HSE and the Minister for Health and Children, Mary Harney to look at the patients behind the statistics, before making a final decision on this issue.”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)