Joe Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)

I wish to state clearly and distinctly why I speak on this issue. The health advisory committees were abolished because the opportunity arose for public representatives and medical people to raise issues. Following a case in the north Cork area, a move was made to abolish the committees. Later, the Southern Health Board was abolished. The Minister and others stated that because of expenditure by the Southern Health Board, it had to be changed to the HSE. The health boards met only once every month but on those occasions one could ask questions of the CEO or senior members and receive replies. This is no longer the case. I hope the amendments proposed will be debated.

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