Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)

The first thing I need is the analysis on a State basis of insourcing generally. I keep needing to separate insourcing and NTPF because they are linked but there is a measure of difference also. The issues of concern for me relate to both. The NTPF serves two purposes, as Deputy Sherlock knows. One is getting treatment abroad where it is appropriate and necessary. This may always be the case in the context of a population of 5 million people where there is more specialist treatment available abroad. While we have waiting times and waiting lists, and do not the capacity in the public system to deliver for everybody, it will also be appropriate. We will discuss how best to wean ourselves off.

The NTPF is before the Committee of Public Accounts next week. I hope to get the insourcing report in advance of that meeting and to discuss it with the NTPF in advance of it going before the committee. I have been very conscious of this issue since April, and I was notified on the NTPF issue in Beaumont Hospital on 11 April. Having already begun the insourcing review, and recognising the NTPF is conducting its own investigation, I need this data and I need to understand what the analysis is.

The matter has also been referred to HSE internal audit, which is important. It is undertaking a full review of all of the matters raised. It is important that we have this conversation three or four weeks from now, as I am now just before the stage when I will be able to take action because I have insufficient information today. I have several pathways through which the information is coming to me in a correct and detailed way. I am just slightly before it.