Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

In the context of the developments taking place under the remit of the Bill, health staff should be properly briefed about what is going on. They should also have an opportunity to discuss their future. When I worked in an ordinary job, I went through phases when we did not know what was going on in companies but it is important to understand what is happening. Those of us who are privileged to represent constituencies here have a responsibility to continue to make that point. When I meet health workers in Tallaght, Millbrook Lawns, Brookfield, Killinarden and Jobstown I get the sense they would like to know what is going on and what the future of the structures will be. That is a fair point for them to make.

Not only am I a strong supporter of Tallaght Hospital, having been associated with the board from 1987 to 2002, but I have been a patient there also. I have queued for my blood test like everybody else. When I had a heart attack in 1999, the hospital was there to care for me. I recall driving back to Tallaght that night to make sure I got sick there, rather than anywhere else. That is where I wanted to be. I am happy to acknowledge the great job that Tallaght Hospital does. The hospital's cardiac rehab team is responsible for looking after so many people. I am not being flippant about this matter. I am speaking seriously about my own illness and the manner in which I was assisted to recover. I would not be here but for the work of that cardiac team.

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