Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I cannot accept the Deputy's statements regarding the work that is happening within the Department. There are, and always have been, challenges in the health system. People are living longer and there is increased demand, which is fantastic. We need to be able to meet those demands and that will require extra funding through the budgetary process.

The Minister will address the Dáil next Tuesday on the issue of scoliosis. He has given that commitment. He had to travel to the United Nations and could not be here but he has given his commitment to address the Dáil next week.

On the children's hospital, I have answered that question previously. There are ongoing negotiations and discussions between the board and BAM, and that has to be bottomed out. Huge pressure is being applied with regard to the delivery of that critical hospital for the children of Ireland for today but also to the future. Yes there are challenges but the Deputy can be assured that the Minister, Deputy Donnelly, and his team are working to expedite these projects as quickly as possible.

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