Under the Health Act (2004) and the subsequent Health Service Executive Governance Act (2013 and 2019), the HSE is accountable to the Minister for Health. Pursuant to the Health Act (2004), it is the responsibility of the HSE to manage and deliver health services.

The HSE is currently implementing the organisation of service delivery into six new health regions. These regions will provide structured support to delivering integrated health services to the public based on local needs. The Midwest Regional Executive Officer, responsible for the Midwest region (incorporating the University of Limerick Hospital Group), was appointed by the HSE in December 2023.

My Department will continue to work with the HSE to ensure improvement of services for all patients in the Midwest region. I am aware of the pressures on acute services in the region and on calls to open an additional Emergency Department in the smaller hospitals. The most recent advice I have received from the HSE's Chief Clinical Office, clinical experts and programmes is opposed to this course of action.

The Government is committed to improving access to acute services in the Midwest. I am providing significant and sustained investment to increase capacity and staffing including a new comprehensive package of measures and investment to alleviate pressures on acute care at the University Hospital Limerick.