Ms Laura Magahy:

The Deputy's first question was about the regions. That is and has been a critical part of Sláintecare's implementation. The rationalisation, population-based focus, clear governance over a defined population, the empowerment of front-line staff, equitable access to services, the budget being distributed on an equitable basis for a population, and a clear regional governance framework are key parts of Sláintecare. It is in the programme for Government. The reality of what has happened is that we had a joint working group which Mr. Sullivan and I co-chaired. We had worked out a high level programmatic approach for the implementation, which was concluded in February of this year, then Covid hit. It was put on ice at that time and needs to be reconsidered in consultation with the HSE, its board and chief executive, and with the Department. It is in the programme for Government and we consider it as a key part of Sláintecare.

There was a Government decision on the geography of the regions and a commitment to come back with a business case that clearly outlines the rationale, costs and risks in ruling out these regions. That is the next concrete step that needs to be considered and the timing of that needs to be considered too.