Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The health and well-being of all our citizens and the ability to access quality health services on an equal basis is of paramount importance. I genuinely believe this meeting is very significant and represents a valuable opportunity to identify a limited number of feasible opportunities that can help deliver the best possible health outcomes for all people, irrespective of background or means.

The committee met several health service representative organisations on Tuesday informally to help identify a limited number of areas where opportunities exist for greater cross-Border co-operation. It was an insightful and productive meeting, and no doubt it will inform our discussion with the Minister today.

Before the discussion begins I would like members to note that this meeting is confined solely to identifying opportunities to enhance health service provision through North-South co-operation. Specific issues and concerns regarding the health service or individual hospitals in the Republic are not relevant to this meeting, and I ask members to respect this ruling when asking the Minister questions. I invite the Minister to make his statement.