James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

In that event, I will run through matters as quickly as possible.

We have managed to turn a surplus of €2.3 billion in 2006 into borrowing of €4.9 billion for next year. That is a good trick. While we are discussing billions, on numerous occasions I have heard the Minister for Health and Children state that the Government's spend on cancer care has risen by €1 billion over ten years. If one divides €1 billion by ten one is left with €100 million, which represents 0.6% of a €16 billion budget.

We are informed that the spending increase in health will be 9%, which just about meets medical inflation. I wish to consider the various aspects of this matter. When future generations consider the 21st century, they will consider the medical card scheme as one of the greatest scandals ever.

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