FG attacks Govt's record on health

Fine Gael leader Michael Noonan has attacked the outgoing Government’s record on health during a visit to St Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin.

Mr Noonan said consultants at the hospital have warned him that they cannot guarantee the future of Ireland’s only liver transplant unit because of a shortage of specialist nurses.

He also said that management in the Mater Hospital has been told to expect cutbacks after the election and that Beaumont Hospital has already drawn up plans to reduce services and staffing.

The Fine Gael leader said the entire health service is facing financial difficulties because of the outgoing Government’s "broken promises".

He urged the electorate to reject Fianna Fail and the Progressive Democrats because of "this dismal record on health".