Tully gives her support to Sinn Féin's new health care plan

The local TD says the Plan will 'transform' health care in Ireland.

Sinn Féin has launched  its ‘Prescription for Change’ which aims to deliver healthcare when its needed. The party’s Cavan-Monaghan TD, Deputy Pauline Tully says the plan is “extensive and comprehensive” and will “transform” healthcare by putting Ireland on course to full universal healthcare by 2035.

“This 120-page plan sets out in detail how Sinn Féin in Government will transform the Irish healthcare system so that everyone will have access to the best quality healthcare when they need it,” she continued before adding that she will not stand over people being unable to access GP services, patients waiting for hours on trolleys in hospitals, and young people in crisis unable to get appropriate mental health supports.

“That is why we are providing for a landmark public GP contract, a revolution in child and youth mental health, and an extensive health bed plan to deal with scandalous overcrowding and disgraceful waiting lists.

“Our plan will ensure that people can access a GP or a dentist when they need one; end the crisis in our emergency departments; cut waiting lists; deliver the biggest investment in the history of the state in mental health; bring Irish nurses and doctors home; and end wasteful spending.”

Deputy Tully went on to say that Sinn Féin is “committed” to affordable healthcare. “In just five years, we would deliver free prescription medicines for all households, and medical cards for those up to the median income,” she added. “We would set this in law in our first 100 days. We have a plan for 7,400 health beds, bolstering local GP, dental, and health services, and expanding home care, and reforming waiting lists.

“And Sinn Féin is committed to accountability in healthcare. That is why we have set out in detail how we will clamp down on wasteful spending, improve patient safety, and deliver real change.”