Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

It is of huge concern if interpersonal relationships interfere with patient safety and care. That is why, as a matter of priority, the HSE has appointed a group, headed by Dr. Eilis McGovern, who is a well-known heart surgeon and well-respected clinician, to oversee the implementation of the recommendations for the region. Clearly there will be difficulties implementing the recommendations because change is never easy but we will ensure that what happens at each hospital is founded on patient safety. Whatever can safely be done in a particular hospital will continue to be done.

There are issues around clinical governance nationally but normally it is the responsibility of the medical board of a hospital. In the context of a new contract of employment we want to move to the clinical directorate model, currently operating very successfully in St James's Hospital in Dublin and representing best practice norms around the world. On foot of the Harding-Clark report the Department of Health and Children has done some work on these issues. There are still huge deficiencies in what happens on the ground and legislation may be necessary for the future.

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