Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I thank the Acting Chairman for the opportunity to speak on the Health (Provision of General Practitioner Services) Bill 2011. Once again we are discussing health and health-related issues. Before I go into the details of the legislation, it is important not to duck or dodge the major issues facing our health service. We still have major problems and people suffering because of a lack of real action by successive governments. The reality is that we need reform and investment. The way forward is a universal health service paid for by the taxpayers.

I have heard a number of Ministers and politicians talk about different models in different countries and one regularly hears the Dutch model mentioned. I would like to refer to the Cuban model. Cuba has a fantastic health service and we should look at its ideas, GP services and the excellent health services there.

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