Dáil debates

Tuesday, 26 June 2018

3:20 pm

Photo of Micheál MartinMicheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The report today that the half-year deficit in the HSE may rise to €300 million, with a further increase by the end of the year, certainly raises a continuing issue over transparency regarding the healthcare budget, the needs of the healthcare services generally and the role of the Government in its interaction with the HSE and the Oireachtas. Invariably, we are never presented with a full, transparent picture in advance of the budget. Last year, a deficit of approximately €140 million was shoved into this year. The problems will continue to build if there is not a proper, transparent assessment of need. There was some indication that Storm Emma and the influenza issue at the beginning of the year might have been factors. One third of the deficit is due to shortfalls in income, according to the Minister for Health in a response in May. The figures in the media today are real and have been confirmed by the Minister. Rather than just continuing with his defined role as a detached commentator on health matters, the Taoiseach should note that, as an Oireachtas, we need far more transparency than we are currently getting on health issues.

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