Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

The legislation I wish to raise was first signalled in the Government's health strategy in 2001 when it was stated new legislation to provide for clear, statutory provisions of entitlement would be brought forward by Government. The signalled target date was over six years ago, 2002. I speak of the eligibility for health and personal social services Bill, which has been promised year in and year out. This time last year it was indicated that it would be published in 2009. In autumn the Government's list said it was not possible to indicate when it would happen and that has been replicated this week with the most recent publication of promised or proposed legislation. Can the Taoiseach explain why this essential legislation has not been progressed some eight years after it was first signalled? Are we being strung out by Government promises on this? Has the Government abandoned its intent to bring forward this legislation, embarrassed by the fact that it is neither in a position nor willing to see the equitable delivery of health care and personal social services across this State? That is the only conclusion anybody can reach from the Government's failure to bring forward the required legislation.

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