Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I am not suggesting anything but simply stating the facts regarding the level of activity and resources being applied. We would all expect that such resources would not lead to the difficulties referred to today. The Minister of State will be investigating the matter in detail with the staff.

I am not passing judgment on anybody. I am simply saying that if the level of resources referred to were not available and people were expected to take on caseloads ten times the current average size, then I would understand the delays and accept that the service is under-resourced. With regard to the flexibility required for an out-of-hours service, the Government would welcome an agreement on that issue. The problem is that we have not reached agreement yet.

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