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

I appreciate that but it is part of the budgetary aspect of the strategy. Let no one be under any illusion; it was €10 million over €40 million, a 25% hit. It is outrageous. Could we have certainty that the cut has been confined to the dustbin?

What of the €35 million ring-fenced for community mental health services? Again, Dr. McLoughlin made direct reference to the importance of the service, with which I fully agree. Could he give us an indication as to whether the Minister of State has been pick-pocketed of the so-called ring-fenced €35 million?

On the reducing cost of medicines - Dr. McLoughlin has some experience in the sector - the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Bill is going through the Oireachtas at present and we have been told progress has been made in talks with the pharmacy sector. However, there is growing evidence that there is not only a significant differential between the cost of branded products in the North compared to the South and between this jurisdiction and other EU member states but also between the generic alternatives. There are incredible indicators that there is as much profiteering with generic substitutes as could be the case with the branded products. What steps have been taken to ensure that real savings are made as a result of the passage of the legislation, which I support?

I could not let the moment pass without referring to the petty and cruel cut to support for people with coeliac disease. I have acknowledged previously that I am a parent of children with coeliac disease. We are not beneficiaries under a medical card scheme but many of those I know who are find it very difficult because the gluten-free food alternatives for people with coeliac disease are hugely expensive.

That is very problematic for those already on limited budgets because to qualify for a medical card, means tested as it is, they must be in fairly straitened economic circumstances. Will the witnesses give us some indication of consideration to reverse this decision or to replace-----