Ms Teresa Cody:

I wish to repeat that we have acknowledged, and wish to acknowledge, the work and contribution of section 39 agencies. That is not denied.

Senator Dolan referenced the fact that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. We need to carry out an analysis to establish what happened and where, the extent of the reductions, when they happened and whether restoration has happened to date. We understand that different things have happened in different places. We need to get the correct facts, and that is the current process.

In the normal course of events there is engagement between the Departments of Health and Public Expenditure and Reform, among others, on these matters. Given that section 39 health agencies are under the remit of the Department of Health, it would be normal that we would appear before the committee today. There is a focus on getting the analysis to establish the facts so that we can move forward in determining what has happened and the appropriate steps at this stage. That is why we have a process in place now. One union has indicated satisfaction with that approach, and we hope to continue to work with others in the hope that we make progress on this matter as quickly as possible.