Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

Nobody is asking for interference. At the outset the Minister clearly stated that the HSE is a discredited organisation. That was one of his policy platforms in the recent election. When he took office he sacked the board and stated he would be assuming control of the HSE because he felt it was inadequate in trying to provide the basic functions and services. He is now saying he trusts the HSE in the context of making sure that audits are carried out and that hygiene inspections take place in hospitals. I am not asking any Minister to interfere with HIQA even though it has been often said by Members opposite that HIQA is an organisation that only makes recommendations and its policies do not have to be implemented but all we are asking for is that HIQA is given the resources and the direction in the context of making sure it carries out independent audits, in view of the fact that the Minister has already stated that the HSE is a discredited organisation. Those are the Minister's words.

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