Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to be associated with the expressions of sympathy to the family of the late Savita Halappanavar. I will revisit that matter at a later stage in this discussion.

I wish the Minister well for the Irish Presidency. It is a very important responsibility for the country and for the promotion of health in the European Union. A few issues arise. This committee discussed medical devices, the issue of PIP implants and the need for a quality control system to be in place across the EU to ensure strong oversight of the licensing of such medical devices. This is an area where it will be necessary to take action to reassure people. This is a key area for strong oversight to ensure that devices are scrutinised and licensed. There needs to be a mechanism to allow consumers to vindicate their rights and to apply for compensation.

I refer to the issue of the threat to health from tobacco. Last week, Senator Professor Crown's motion that this should be a smoking-free Parliament received some support. The issue of tobacco is a key area for this Presidency. The Minister said that the subject of food intended for infants will be on the agenda of the Council meeting. Will obesity be discussed? I ask for clarification on those issues. I wish the Minister well and I hope it will be a successful Presidency from the point of view of legislation and the position of Ireland in Europe.