Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

The Taoiseach indicated that Professor Halligan advised Kevin Kelly of the circumstances surrounding his decision. My question was whether the Taoiseach would advise the House of his understanding of those reasons. He clearly failed to do that. Will the Taoiseach outline his understanding of the reasons that Professor Halligan took this decision at such a late hour?

Furthermore, the Taoiseach said that nobody would lose his or her position. However, with regard to the IMPACT trade union and those with disabilities who have voiced their concerns, nobody seems to know what is before them. This House, too, remains in the dark about this. The recent statement from the Tánaiste, which was relayed by the Progressive Democrats, indicates that she might want to increase private sector involvement in the health services. How does that affect the Taoiseach, given that he is such an exponent of republican and socialist ideals? Does he believe the further privatisation of the health services is the way forward, in view of the problems we currently face?

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