Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We have a vibrant health service. We have a health service that, despite many of the difficulties it faces every day in the accident and emergency units, through its front-line workers, by and large delivers better health outcomes for our citizens. Due to the efforts of our staff and the resourcing and support they get, when our citizens get into the system they get the care and focus they need and deserve. We have a system that is capable of responding to the health needs of our citizens.

I will go through each of the points that have been put to me in turn. I will begin with what Deputy Troy said. A process is under way. The process involves votes being cast and then counted. I am clear about the proposition that we have negotiated with the public services committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions. I believe the proposition can make a difference to a large number of public servants quickly while also meeting all the other service needs that have been raised with me, even those raised during this session.

I stand by what I said to Deputy Paul Murphy. It is noticeable that he used the language of threats to Government. I am interested in trying to constructively engage with other stakeholders and reach agreements with our citizens that deliver outcomes for them, including outcomes relating to their wages and relating to meeting all the other priorities that we expect Government to be able to respond to.

From what Deputy O'Brien said one moment ago, it appears he wants this issue dealt with within a single year.

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