Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Yes, and that represents a huge percentage of the overall €23 billion budget, yet that sector would say to us that, because of the pay disparity issues, there are very significant challenges in terms of service delivery. Is the model of using section 38 and 39 organisations fit for purpose? Along with the challenges those organisations have financially, the disparity between grades and, therefore, the recruitment challenge and the pull towards non-section 38 and 39 organisations, often it can be difficult for us as public representatives dealing those organisations in terms of service provision. I am not saying that as a blanket criticism across the board, but some services are less accountable to us as public representatives and for the services they provide to their patients. Where do we go with section 38 and section 39 organisations? They account for a huge proportion of the budget. We do not seem to have the same oversight and governance. That has been highlighted in the Comptroller and Auditor General's report in terms of the broader picture, and we are experiencing service delivery issues as well.