James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

Is there a budget in place in respect of the roll-out of a cervical screening programme? Is the Minister in a position to guarantee the House that it will be rolled out by March next year? In light of the cutbacks taking place, is there any real credibility to her claim that she will roll it out?

A large advertisement appeared in the Sunday Independent last weekend in which company directors, whether their companies are large or small, public or private sector, were urged to take good care of everybody and ensure they were fully compliant before it was too late because they would be responsible. The Minister has a contract with the people to deliver health care services. She promised them that there would be no cutbacks and that any cutbacks would not hurt patient care but there were and they have done. How does she intend to come good in respect of her promises?

See this speech in context