Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We will not have time for a back and forth debate. While I take the Deputy's point, I do not agree that Sláintecare is not the key to addressing many of these challenges, including waiting lists. Delivering what Sláintecare calls on me to deliver is key.

With one week to go before the budget, I cannot answer the Deputy's question on how much I am seeking, or perhaps his party is seeking, in the budget for the delivery of Sláintecare. I can give one example of multi-annual expenditure. Of almost €11 billion provided for capital expenditure, €6.6 billion is what I would describe as Sláintecare funding for the delivery of its capital elements. The current expenditure elements will be a matter for budget day next week and the HSE service plan thereafter. I will be happy to continue our interaction on the Deputy's questions later.