Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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I, too, congratulate Deputy Shortall on her appointment as Chairman. I know she will do an excellent job. I look forward to working with her and the committee.

I agree with Deputy Harty and other members that keeping politics out of this issue will be key to the success of this committee. We all want to see the ten-year plan implemented. We are also aware of how politics has curbed progress within the health service. It is important that our ten-year vision is workable and affordable, bearing in mind that resources are limited. We must also be cognisant of this Government's term in office and set out clear targets in terms of what is achievable within the next year or two. This is an all-party committee and its vision for our health service over the next ten years and beyond should be implemented regardless of who is in government in the future.

I look forward to participating in the work of this committee. We are faced with a huge challenge.

I concur with Deputy Daly in regard to the strategic plan, which will be a key part of the success of the committee. I look forward to working with everyone over the next six months.