Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)

I think the Minister would acknowledge that the nurses have been very open to the idea of changes in practice with regard to health reform. However, the problem relates to the lack of engagement by the Minister, the Department and the HSE. The Minister talks about a forum and an innovative process, but when will that forum be established? What will be its terms of reference and how speedily will the process begin? If the Minister has faith in it, why is she talking about it in such broad terms when a head of steam which will have a major impact on the delivery of health services, particularly at acute hospital level, is building up?

There seems to be almost lethargy about the way the Minister is talking. It seems to be almost an abstract view that it might be a good idea to develop a new approach. Is this the approach? Has the Minister talked to the nurses about a timeframe, terms of reference, how it will be done etc? Does she recognise that child care workers who are being paid more than nurses answer to nurses? This imbalance is unique and I am not aware of anything similar happening in any other sector. While such difficulties require an innovative approach, they also need a coherent and realistic approach. Exactly what approach does the Minister suggest?

See this speech in context