Louise McSharry: There are only losers in waiting game for healthcare and housing – and issues can’t be solved with Budget quick wins

This morning I did what I’ve been doing every morning for the past couple of weeks. I logged on to the Mater Hospital’s online appointment service to see whether there were any cancellations for blood tests over the next month. I have an appointment, I made it last week, but the soonest slot I could get was in six weeks’ time.

I have really weak veins, so getting bloods in my GP’s office doesn’t go well. I need the skills of the incredible phlebotomists in the hospital, but unfortunately I’ll have to wait..