Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

It is highly unlikely. I have not been able to surprise the Deputy so far.

His basic question is whether the sub-committee engages itself in operational matters that come under the statutory authority and remit of the HSE and the answer is "No". However, the sub-committee seeks to ensure in the implementation of policy that the operational responsibility, where it lies, is exercised with due regard to the policy outlined by Cabinet.

I do not want to go into the specifics of the Crumlin issue because it will be dealt with in detail during Private Members' time this week but, clearly, certain assertions are being made, which are not correct.

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