James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is a bit rich to be told about a recruitment embargo that Fianna Fáil introduced itself. It is a bit rich to talk about the country's finances when we all know the cause of the problem and that we are struggling. Despite taking €3 billion out of health services and losing over 10,000 staff, we have not only maintained a safe health service but have also improved it, as evidenced by the figures I gave on inpatient treatment times, the number who must endure long waits on trolleys and in our commitment to deal with outpatient appointments, which no previous Government would even consider. The approach of former Minister, Deputy Martin, was to sweep it under the carpet or throw money at it and hope it would go away.

We have had a good meeting. I will not be overly political about this matter but believe we have made considerable strides. I thank all the staff working in the health service, particularly those on the front line and the management who have stepped up to the plate, are embracing reform and changing outcomes for the better for our people. That is what it is all about.