Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There are two parts to the answer. I would be dissatisfied if the NTPF, the HSE and the Department were not working closely together and were not closely linked because that is the only way we will solve the waiting list challenge. The Deputy is entirely correct. The interim arrangement in respect of the head of the NTPF is not to the satisfaction of any of us given the enhanced role the fund is taking on. That is why the position has been publicly advertised. Regarding the official on secondment, it is clear that the NTPF reports to the Department and to me. The board is appointed by me but it is right and proper, bearing in mind what previous Ministers decided to do with the fund versus what I have decided to do, that there should be a full-time, publicly advertised appointee as CEO of the NTPF.