Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I do not suggest the system can work without locums. The question related to whether the terms set out in the working group report were implemented and whether there was communication between the health service in Galway and the hospital in Cork where the individual in question worked.

Every Member has referred to the professionalism of Dr. Ann O'Doherty. I listened to the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney, speak last night on the report and review carried out by Dr. O'Doherty, who did an enormous amount of work in a very short time. The Minister stated on the record last night that she is not entitled to see the report. She is the Minister for Health and Children and she requested and directed that this review be carried out. She stated that the problem had arisen due to a breakdown in communications, which appears to be the latest excuse. Can somebody explain why the Minister for Health and Children is not entitled to see Dr. O'Doherty's report? I am sure she does not require legal editing of a report. She is the Minister for Health and Children and the report is prepared for her perusal, yet she cannot see it.

The Taoiseach and the Minister committed themselves to publishing this report. Why is that not happening for the benefit of everybody? The same situation occurred in the Leas Cross incident in which Deputy O'Dowd was involved for many years. It was more than 12 months before that report was published. Both the Taoiseach and the Minister for Health and Children have given a commitment on this, yet the Minister stated in the House last night that she is not entitled to see the report. Is that in the interests of patients who have suffered great trauma?

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