Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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I wish to make a point on how we deal with the debate, essentially addressing the question raised by Deputy Madigan. Everybody is free to use his or her judgment on whom to meet, and that is what we do as practising policy makers. This is not an issue exclusive to this committee. We are members of other committees and vested interests seek time with us. It is a capacity issue that we will not be led and used by any particular vested interest. I think we all have the capacity to rise above vested interests and not represent narrow views.

In the same vein, I do not know how relevant this is but some of the other members and I visited the College of Physicians yesterday. I know they are doing a ten year health plan strategy which they hope to have completed by the end of this year. I suggest the committee should tie in with them so as to avoid duplication.

I support Deputy Kelly's suggestion. It is a good idea to have a template for submissions so that we are all on the same page.