James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

I wish to point out, notwithstanding the interruptions, that there has been huge inconsistency in the transport arrangements across this island. I must concur with Deputy Pringle's comments. There is a lack of uniformity, although the HSE was supposed to result in uniformity of approach and of care for 4.4 million people, or 4.2 million as it was at the time. There are totally different criteria in the west of Ireland from those on the east coast. While people are entitled in the west, they are not entitled in the east.

We must make a decision on the basis of having so little money. We can argue why that is the case but that is the reality we face. Are we going to meet expectation or are we going to meet need? My view is that we will do damned well to meet need and need is what we should focus on - the needs of those who require this transport and who do not have their own transport because they do not have the income or means. It is a fact that there are many people in the west who currently have their own transport and drive to get dialysis. Furthermore, we are not just discussing dialysis and cancer patients in this context but a range of services that are used to bring people to health facilities. We need clear guidelines and criteria that are fair and transparent. I do not believe that has been the case in HSE west and there is an acknowledgement of that on its part. That is what this review is about.

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