Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The Irish Heart Foundation national audit of stroke care was raised in this debate in the context of, among other things, the need for rehabilitation following a stroke. This audit was conducted with the support of the Department of Health and Children. The report covers the spectrum of care for people who suffer a stroke, from prevention to treatment and rehabilitation. In 2007 the Minister established the cardiovascular strategy policy review group to advise on how to prevent the occurrence of cardiovascular disease and stroke and how to improve services. The audit highlighted a number of areas where clinical care and the organisation of stroke services can be enhanced.

I am glad of the opportunity to respond to a number of the issues raised and I conclude by referring to a feature article in The Irish Times this morning about four young men living with acquired brain injury living in a Peter Bradley Foundation house in Waterford. A presenter on "Morning Ireland" referred to the four young men being in "A house full of life, music and hope" and another presenter said "It was great to read a health story that has wonderful consequences for the people involved".

Despite the substantial increase in service provision, this Government acknowledges the significant demand for new services and a growing requirement to enhance existing services. This Government will continue its commitment to develop public health services in line with our budgetary strategy to provide a sustainable and significant level of funding for public——

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