John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

The previous Minister, Deputy Martin, introduced the reform package in regard to the health services. Any of us who deal with the issues at the coalface, particularly in regard to health, will be aware that it was the one area where reform was absolutely necessary. I commend the Tánaiste since taking over the portfolio of Minister for Health and Children on the work she has done to date. She is to be commended for undertaking the difficult task ahead and for introducing the reforms. As Members on all sides of the House will be aware, previous Ministers always had to fight a political battle to effect change, not just party politics but politics within the whole medical area. This was seen through the health boards in the old system.

If a swift change is to come about, it will only be by political co-operation. Far from tabling motions such as this, the Opposition would serve the system much better if it worked in close co-operation with the Minister to ensure the difficulties we all experience in the health services are overcome. There is no way round this issue. In any company that faces challenges in the commercial market, there is a need for everyone involved, workers and management alike, to co-operate and ensure the necessary reforms are introduced, put in place constructively and funded properly. It is only by doing so we can move forward in regard to the changes and services that will be necessary in the future. I say this as someone who has often complained and suggested change, whether in regard to the services provided in my constituency, the services that are available nationally or issues such as MRSA. I know the Minister has conducted that audit throughout the hospital. I want to draw attention to the many public meetings that have been held and the concerns expressed on the issue. I urge the Minister to undertake whatever change is necessary in the workplace to make people acknowledge the issue of MRSA and to assist and support those at the coal face delivering services to ensure patients are properly monitored and informed and, where necessary, receive the support necessary in their own homes because the issue is not being dealt with properly or constructively.

If political parties work together, they will bring about the necessary change to ensure a proper health service. The co-operation of consultants and other professionals is also needed. St. Luke's Hospital in Kilkenny has often been cited by all political parties as an example of best practice in the delivery of health services. It is in receipt of funding for its accident and emergency unit, outpatient facility and a proper stroke unit. That happened as a result of funding from the Department through the HSE and the co-operation of consultants and others working in the hospital and interested in achieving change.

Funding is needed and when taxpayers invest €12 billion of their hard earned money in the service, they want results. Value for money and appropriate change for patients will not happen until political parties recognise that the issue is not only about the Minister and the Opposition playing its role but about putting the patient first. The patient will be put first in the effort the Minister is making to introduce the substantial reform needed. The Government is committed to providing the funding required to make that happen and achieve reform.

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