Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The word "crisis" is probably the most overused word in political debate. I do not suggest that I am unaware of some of the problems which remain. The Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children has provided increased resources because she is anxious to deal with further issues that need to be addressed. There have been significant improvements in capacity and personnel. I refer to front-line people who are doing good work. Deputy Ó Caoláin and I hear about the problems that exist, but I am sure if he is honest he will admit he has met many people who are happy with the level of service they have received within the health service. Not everyone is genuinely satisfied with the service they have been given, but the number of people who are happy with their experience of the health service is far higher than we are allowed to give credence to in this House.

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