I thank Deputy O'Rourke for sharing time. I welcome the opportunity to speak on the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill. The legislation marks welcome and bold steps being taken by the Minister of State, Deputy Hoctor, and her colleagues in streamlining and reforming the health service. The legislation's proposals have been welcomed by many because there are too many unanswerable agencies in the health services. I hope these are the first of many steps that will be taken to streamline health services.

The Bill gives effect to the Government's policy to establish an office for older people in the Department of Health and Children. I find it hard to fathom the Opposition spokespersons' claims these steps are going too far. For months, they have called for health service reform. Yet when one step is taken in that direction, they fear it is one step too far. It is typical of the Opposition at present, given a budget will be introduced next week.

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