The figures also point to a widening gap between population growth and the expansion of GP services. Commenting on the figures, Mr Cullinane said they reflected a failure to expand publicly funded GP services in line with demand. The Government has also expanded GP training in recent years, with annual training places increasing to 350 in both 2024 and 2025. He argued that introducing a dedicated public GP contract would help attract and retain doctors within general practice. The department also highlighted the expansion of GP training places.