Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I gave notice on Committee Stage that I would bring forward this amendment on Report Stage. The amendment was brought forward late in the day because of the decision to work with the Department of Health and Children.

The provision of the new scheme of capital allowances specifies pre-approval of any proposed development in this area by the HSE with the consent of the Minister for Health and Children. This pre-approval will ensure the development of palliative care units covered by capital allowances is done in accordance with existing policies and strategies in this area.

All specialist palliative care services are delivered free of charge to public patients.

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