Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Infections are happening in hospitals. That phenomenon has been taken on by every advanced health system in the world. We have put in a systematic approach. Last week, when I referred to a Deputy raising an individual case, I did not suggest it was not significant or had not been a very traumatic experience for a family. Of course I appreciate that situation. I have held the office of Minister for Health and Children and have some acquaintance with those issues. However, if we are to improve our health service, we will not do it on the basis of anecdotal evidence but only on the basis of a systematic response. That sort of systemic response, outlined in reports like the one we received yesterday, to continuing public sector reform will provide us with the prospects of improving the service rather than suggesting there have been no improvements in the service. The example of Ennis General Hospital and what happened there on infection control is a very salutary example of what can be achieved on a daily, weekly and monthly basis if the right approach is adopted, which does not necessarily mean increased capital resources.

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