Professor David Keegan:

I thank Deputy Cullinane. We can set up the model and the structure. We have to respect the legal entities. We have put in place a system of strategic oversight, which is the VACO. The next step will be to generate service level agreements and memorandums of understanding to create an internal network between the legal entities to operate in that structure. The initial part is dependent on the goodwill, buy-in and interest of all the stakeholders in the region. We have set up the VACO. The next step is to create the legal structure through service level agreements and memorandums of understanding. There is a service level agreement guidance document that the finance and legal teams will work through to create them. Data governance must also be considered as must agreements on data sharing and data protection. These will all be looked at by our specialty teams.

We expect and hope that when it moves to the regional health authorities and away from the CHO system, we can blend in this model because we will have demonstrated effectiveness and will be able to show this route to it. Of course, the danger and risk is that people will stand up and say we cannot do it at this stage. We have moved slowly by trying to demonstrate some successes, such as those of Dr. Rogers, CHI and Ashgrove House. We want to integrate properly by doing this. We are in this incremental phase in the context of delivering true integration. I hope this answers the question. I am happy to take further questions.