Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)

Is the Taoiseach aware that since the Tánaiste took over as Minister for Health and Children, her Department seems to be suffering from some kind of paralysis? As Deputy Howlin said, the health capital programme has not been forthcoming. In addition, legislation from the Tánaiste's Department seems to be moving at a slower rate than was promised. The House was promised there would be no delay regarding the nursing homes repayment scheme. What has happened to the relevant Bill and when will it be published?

When Dr. Neary was deregistered by the Medical Council, the House was promised that the medical practitioners Bill would be published as soon as possible. The heads of that Bill were expected last autumn. The Tánaiste promised that they would be forthcoming but we still have not seen them. When will the Bill be published? When will the nursing homes repayment scheme be introduced? When will the Taoiseach deal with the serious problems in the area of health that are causing such suffering?

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