Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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I might finish addressing the point the Deputy made about all of those difficulties and challenges. While it is probably too late, there is at least a direction, focus and investment under the overall Sláintecare framework. This year, more than ever, one can see the alignment with Sláintecare. Into 2019, as the service plan is developed, there will be more emphasis on lowering the intervention and bringing services closer to home. The Deputy referred to scoliosis and so on in that context. His question about accountability is one I will refer to the HSE in a minute as it is not in the Minister's gift to fire anyone. That is a point made to one of my predecessors previously by the head of the HSE. It is not a hiring and firing role and a matter for any Minister to comment on. Accountability within the HSE is one I can pass to the Director General to answer directly, unless there is a specific question for me.