Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I was struck by the Taoiseach's remarks earlier today in the Chamber about the difficulties that the country now faces. There is clearly a range of serious problems ahead of us, and areas need to be changed and reformed. I was in the Netherlands at the weekend with Deputy Reilly, and we walked from the train station to the hotel, minus limousines and so on. I took the opportunity to visit a substantial hospital in the city centre, as well as some primary care centres, and I met with officials dealing with the Dutch health system. What I saw was the health system that we should have for the future. Patients are seen inside ten minutes, ambulances are required by law to pick up patients inside 15 minutes, yet the per capita spend for 17 million is €3,500, as opposed to €5,000 here.

The Fine Gael Party has published its views on how the Irish health system can be transformed from being a two tier system to a universal single system that would operate effectively in the interests of every person who requires health treatment in this country. What is in operation for 17 million people could certainly work effectively for 4 million people here. We have had rows in this House about failures and inadequacies in the health system, and about the fact that it appears to be a bottomless pit. In spite of pouring in money at an enormous rate-----

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