Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

There are a number of important issues on the agenda but nothing is as important as life. As I said earlier, the Government has had first and second chances on a number of occasions. Women who have been misdiagnosed are being asked to take a chance with their health and their lives. I regard this matter of statements on cancer services as absolutely critical and mná na hÉireann deserve more than 80 minutes of our time.

I propose an amendment to the Order of the Business that these statements be taken until 6 p.m. followed by one hour's question time before Private Members' business resumes because I have been approached by Members on all sides who have genuine questions to ask about the divergence in standards and the confusion that exists about the roles of the Minister for Health and Children, the HSE, the Department of Health and Children and, in regard to cancer services, the role and responsibilities of Professor Keane, who will be appointed shortly. This matter should not be confined by a Whips' instruction that we have 80 minutes discussion. I propose in all earnestness that the debate should enable everybody to have their say until 6 p.m. followed by an hour's question time so that Members can put questions to the Minister for Health and Children in the hope they can get straight answers.

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