Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The HSE is rightly assessing all these arrangements in relation to IT processes, some of which, as Deputies will be aware, come from the old health board system. These are being evaluated by the former CEO of the Southern Health Board, Seán Hurley, an eminent and competent health board official. Mr. Hurley has been given the responsibility of doing this on behalf of the HSE, which has taken further independent IT advice to assist it in this matter.

In relation to specific projects, these matters are evaluated by the HSE and can be dealt with by it specifically. In overall terms, the Government has increased the allocation for mental health care services by more than €25 million this year. Its record in this area far surpasses any of its predecessors.

The point to be made to the Fine Gael leader is as follows. IT processes that are necessary are being evaluated by the HSE and those done in the past will proceed. The HSE is getting the expertise necessary to ensure that is done. The global allocations which have been provided are greater than those given in the past because they are a fundamental driver of reform in the health service.

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