Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)

Once again the Minister is distorting what Opposition Deputies have said. I previously stated that we did not believe 32 hospitals should carry out surgery and we completely supported her decision in that regard. She should not shake her head because I want the same respect as the Minister of State, Deputy Moloney, demanded. We are entitled to this respect as public representatives.

We are not insisting on maintaining St. Luke's as a stand-alone radiation oncology unit. I am sick and tired of having my words distorted when I speak about cancer in this House. As Labour Party spokesperson on health, I support the national cancer strategy but we are trying to maintain St. Luke's as a facility for the treatment of ailments related to cancer in public patients in a manner and form to be determined by the HSE with the consent of the Minister. That language is open enough to allow other forms of palliative care if that is what she desires, although I doubt she will still be Minister when this provision comes into effect. I do not want my words distorted. I support the concept of excellence and the type of strategy enunciated by the Minister. However, having moved surgery, certain diagnostics and other services from Sligo to Galway, the Minister agreed, following talks she and Professor Keane had with people in Sligo, that patients could have subsequent care provided in Sligo General Hospital in a safe manner. Why is a similar position not allowed in the case of St. Luke's Hospital? Why can the hospital not be linked into one of the Dublin centres of excellence? What is the difference between St. Luke's Hospital and Sligo General Hospital?

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