Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I also welcome Dr. McLoughlin. This is his first opportunity to address the committee. I also join in wishing Mr. Tony O'Brien the very best in his new role and responsibilities.

Reference was made in the strategy and again in Dr. McLoughlin's address to total expenditure for the public health service being reduced by approximately €1.1 billion over the period 2011 to 2014. It is then stated that to meet what are described as unavoidable pressures and Government commitments in excess of €2 billion will have to be taken out of the health budget over the same period. Could Dr. McLoughlin explain the difference between the two figures? I cannot get clear in my head exactly what has been said. Could he tell us what is the projected cut year-on-year for 2013 and 2014? Does he have those figures? It is clear that cuts must take place in the context of a €2 billion reduction in budget.

The strategy is guided by the Government's promised health care reforms and a cornerstone of the reform was the roll-out of free GP care for all. Initially it was to apply to patients with long-term illness. We were told recently that draft legislation in that regard has run into difficulties because of complex legal matters and could be delayed by as much as a year. What is the position in that regard now and how soon will the initial steps be taken on the roll-out of free GP care for all?

A €10 million cut has been indicated for personal assistant services. How was the cut ever contemplated and can we be absolutely certain, given-----