Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the Deputy that it is farcical for one Minister of State to respond to four issues. However, I know the Minister, Deputy James Reilly, and the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Reilly, would engage directly with him on his questions about who is on the steering group and the details of costs and timelines. I note, however, that the patients are represented on the group and, if the process is working properly, it should address the needs of patients and their families. I tend to agree with the Deputy on the issue. I have had similar experiences in my own area and ensured the regional director of operations was answerable to me on any issue arising. I recognise that it is important to raise these issues in the House and apologise to the Deputy for my lack of intimate knowledge of them.

See this speech in context