Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is nobody who would like to see the contract negotiations brought to a conclusion more than me, the Minister, Deputy Harris, everyone in the Department of Health and the other Ministers on this side of the House. As the Deputy will appreciate, there are two sides involved in the negotiations. It is not just within the Government's remit to end the negotiations. Both sides have to reach satisfaction. The Irish Medical Organisation, which is the representative body of the doctors, must also get agreement from its members up the line. We are very anxious to see this process brought to a conclusion. We are prepared to provide the additional significant resources that are required to bring that about. Many issues are still being teased out by both sides. It takes two to tango, but it takes two to agree as well. Those of us on this side of the House, like the Deputies opposite, really want to see agreement. I do not think there is any political disagreement on this issue. There is no difference between the positions of Deputies across the House on issues like GP contracts and the sustainability of GP services. The primary care sector is an area of medicine that works very well. GP practices are crucial for rural and urban areas. They are delivering superb services. We recognise their value and want to see it recognised. I will take an interest in Deputy Calleary's local area. I am quite happy to see whether anything can be done in the Bangor area, which he has mentioned.

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