Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The budget overrun in the Department of Health has been the subject of a recent Private Members' motion. It is clear this has arisen because of the inaction on the part of the Government to bring forward legislation which was promised in the budget last year. I refer to the health (pricing and supply of medical goods) Bill which had provision for savings of €140 million and, allied to other Estimate provisions it was thought up to €300 million, which could be saved in this year's budget. Instead, there is an overrun by the same amount and the prospect of a deficit of €500 million by the end of the year which will impact on patient care and safety. I ask for information on this legislation and other health legislation. When will control of the budget be undertaken and legislation brought forward?

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