Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The Deputy is crowing very early. I wish to ask the Taoiseach about a few issues of real importance to the people. In recent times, we have heard of patients having to wait up to 18 months for a colonoscopy, a simple procedure and test for the early diagnosis of cancer that can save lives. Reports indicate delays of four months in Cork, nine months in Kerry, eight months in Wexford, 18 months in Portlaoise and up to 12 months in Tralee and Galway. Consultants have said to me face to face in different hospitals that patients die because they are not seen as quickly as they should be seen. The Minister for Health and Children, who is not present, says these delays are unacceptable, as if she were some sort of innocent bystander rather than the Minister responsible for the health service.

What will the Taoiseach do to ensure that what happened to Susie Long — God rest her — does not happen to any other patient? She could not get a colonoscopy on time. In respect of colonoscopies, what has the Taoiseach to say about his comment that we are running a world-class health service in respect of which he should be congratulated?

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