A Fine Gael TD has expressed concern over another politician organising buses from Cork to Belfast for cataract procedures.
Rural Independent TD Michael Collins said 26 people left on the ‘Belfast or Blind Bus No. 59’ on October 17 and returned “relieved to have their eyesight saved”.
But Fine Gael and Cork TD Colm Burke has expressed concerns over elderly people travelling to the North given the surge in Covid there.
He said the waiting lists for cataract procedures are being dealt with “comprehensively in Cork”.
He added: “People have the freedom to move and I’ve no difficulty with that but I do think at this time it’s high risk and I have concerns about it.”
Mr Collins, who represents Cork-South West, posted pictures on his Facebook page of passengers from 14 different areas in Cork and from Co Kerry getting on the bus.
He said 18 of them were tested for Covid-19 at his office and had their results one hour later.
Another bus is due to leave West Cork on Monday for Belfast with 14 people due to have the operation on Tuesday.
However, Mr Collins said it was “an insult of the highest order” that Mr Burke said waiting lists are being dealt with comprehensively.
He said: “He’s correct, they shouldn’t be going to Belfast.
“But sadly Fine Gael while in Government didn’t deal with the crisis and Fianna Fail aren’t either.
“I think what Deputy Burke’s problem is, is that most of the people going on my next bus are from his constituency and it’s hurting him because they’re not able to resolve the situation.”
