Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

A debate has ensued following the publication of the national health service plan by the Minister for Health, Deputy Reilly. Let us make no mistake about it, taking €750 million out of the health service will have an enormous impact. There is also significant uncertainty about the fair deal scheme. Are the 1,200 new places being provided under the scheme net of the 900 places which will be moved from the State community nursing units to the private sector? A large number of issues arise from the plan and it is urgent that the House be given an opportunity to debate them. At the recent Whips' meeting, the Government Whip asked Opposition Whips to raise issues and topics for debate in the House. I ask the Taoiseach to allow Government time for a debate on the Health Service Executive's national health service plan.

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