Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

When the Government took office, we originally did not establish a Cabinet health committee. However, due to the importance of the issue in question, a health committee date has been set for the next fortnight. It will focus on this and several other issues. Over the summer, the Government, the Minister for Health and the Economic Management Council have been active on this issue.

I have visited several hospitals myself and spoken to patients on trolleys. It is always regrettable that this occurs. The special delivery unit, established by the Minister for Health to examine waiting lists and patients on trolleys, has made some interesting preliminary findings which will require a co-ordinated plan to be put in place to see such backlogs do not arise as they have consistently done so over the past 20 years. I have also visited Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. It is trying for patients to be left on trolleys, often in uncomfortable positions. Those at the front line of the health services do extraordinary work in dealing with a legacy and a structure inadequate for our current needs. Over the time ahead, this will be a priority matter for the Minister for Health. The Cabinet health committee will receive reports on several issues from the Minister, the HSE and so forth and we will have an opportunity to discuss those matters in the Chamber.

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