NEW: Tipperary TD slams 'disgraceful' cuts to hospital transport across the county
Independent TD Mattie McGrath has launched a strong condemnation of the HSE’s decision
Independent TD Mattie McGrath has launched a strong condemnation of the HSE’s decision to restrict hospital transport services, a move he says is leaving elderly, disabled, and rural patients across Tipperary stranded and without access to essential medical care.
Deputy McGrath described the policy as "a betrayal of basic decency" and said it is having a devastating impact, especially on elderly, disabled, and wheelchair-using patients in rural areas with little or no public transport access.
"We now have people in Tipperary who have waited up to four years for hospital appointments, only to be told they have no way of getting there unless they can provide their own transport." said Deputy McGrath.
"This is a complete abandonment of vulnerable people.
"The cutbacks mean that many patients without transport including those with heart conditions, neurological disorders, and mobility impairments — are being left to fend for themselves.
"This is hitting the most vulnerable the hardest. Wheelchair users can’t just hop on a bus, and many simply can’t afford a taxi to Limerick, Waterford, or Cork.
"For some, this is the difference between getting treatment and going without. It’s shameful."
The TD also criticised what he called a "bureaucratic nightmare" response being offered to those seeking help.
Patients are being advised to apply for an Exceptional Needs Payment from the Department of Social Protection to cover travel costs — but this process, he says, is "slow, frustrating, and out of touch with rural realities".
Deputy McGrath is demanding immediate action from the Minister for Health to reverse the decision and restore accessible, non-cancer patient transport, particularly for those with mobility issues.
"This is a healthcare system that’s losing sight of the people it’s supposed to serve. I will be raising this issue directly with the Minister. People in Tipperary will not be abandoned."