Local FF TD Calls For Action To Address GP Shortage

Tipperary TD Jackie Cahill called on the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to address the shortage of doctors providing General Practice (GP) services.

The Dáil heard that many private patients in Tipperary cannot get access to a GP service.

Deputy Cahill also highlighted that a modular housing village of 62 houses is being constructed in Thurles in addition to other buildings in the area being used to accommodate refugees.

Deputy Cahill says he welcomes refugees but stressed the need for adequate Medical and Educational services for all members of the community.

The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar accepted that access to GP services for private patients was a problem in many parts of the country but pointed to the number of doctors with a contract for the GMS scheme which has never been higher.

Deputy Verakar says that the Government is keen to work with the Irish Medical Organisation and the Irish College of General Practitioners to find solutions to the shortage and will be increasing the number of available training spaces.