Ms Laura Magahy:

I thank Deputy Shortall for recognising the work that was done by colleagues in the HSE and throughout the system. It means a great deal, given that she was the Chairman of the committee that produced the original Oireachtas report.

On eligibility and entitlement, there will be a concerted effort immediately. I highlighted a couple of aspects in the presentation, including the memo to Government on the de Buitléir report, which is important. A unit is being established within the Department of Health specifically to examine eligibility and entitlement, and will be resourced to do so. There has not yet been a concerted effort but there was acknowledgement through the Secretary General that it would happen and we are very pleased about that.

The issue of eligibility and entitlement touches on several Departments. As the committee will be aware, if one is eligible to a medical card, one will also be entitled to other benefits. We have agreed at the high-level delivery board that an interdepartmental group will be set up to examine eligibility and entitlement. They are tangible steps that will give emphasis and momentum to that question, which is important. The Minister recently attended the universal healthcare forum in New York and is very committed to universal healthcare. It is important to get the homework done in respect of what universal healthcare means and produce a pathway to what it will cost. The issue of cost explains why we proposed a citizens' assembly. I might ask Dr. Healy to say a few words on the matter and I can return to the other questions thereafter.