James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy had his moment to speak and in which to acknowledge his colleagues, if he so desired. I recognise that Deputies Conway, Ann Phelan and John Paul Phelan are present. There is concern in the south east owing to difficulties associated with the configuration there. There are associations elsewhere in the country that do not seem to create difficulties. In other words, as one person put it, there seem to be marriages made in heaven that people seem to be very happy to allow to proceed.

In my original answer, I stated this is a grouping exercise. It is not a question of the trusts. If they do not work out, we will have the opportunity to carry out a review before we finalise any trust legislation. It is not fair to say that these provisions will be set in stone. However, it would be very wrong of me to pre-empt the outcome of the report. I have not seen it, I acknowledge there are concerns and that some hospitals within the south east have different views. We must bring people together or let them part, depending on evolving circumstances.

While I cannot pre-empt the content of the report, I take on board the concerns of the people in Waterford. They, including Deputy Deasy, who is not present, have made representations to me. Equally, the Deputies from Wexford are concerned. All these agendas are different. The Members reflect the worries and concerns of the people who elected them and this must be taken into consideration. We will continue to listen and I hope there will be a resolution that will serve everybody's purpose and, most important, the needs of patients.

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