Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I wanted to come in on that last point. Under the European working time directive, there is a clear need to ensure more consultants in the system. In line with what Deputy Twomey has already put to the Tánaiste, can she outline to us what steps she is now taking and what further measures she is considering to ensure greater throughput, not only regarding indigenously trained staff from whatever community, but also regarding ensuring that they remain in the system? Every citizen is paying for the process. We are not paying for them to go off and take their skills elsewhere. There is massive investment on the part of every taxpayer in this State.

We are losing people at an inordinate rate. What steps will the Tánaiste take to ensure that people remain in the system here? We must gear matters towards that. It must be attractive, and that is not only a matter of money but a raft of different things that affect the conditions of employment. We must make it attractive for people to stay.

I agree with the Tánaiste that the Canadian system is very interesting since it is open to all on the basis of need and free at the point of delivery, excepting only a very small number of services not provided through the national health system. Along with other experiences, it is well worth considering in formulating a new health care system in our own jurisdiction. I would like to know the Tánaiste's response and what she is now doing to attract back some of those whom we have already lost.

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