The electorate has been completely betrayed by the Government. Following the general election in May, shortly after being reappointed Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Martin approved an 18% increase in VHI charges effective from 1 September 2002, the largest rise in the history of the State which puts an extra €65 annually to the cost of a plan B scheme. The Minister then announced an increase in charges for patients attending accident and emergency units without a doctor's letter, and changes in the drug refund scheme. Research funding was withheld or curtailed for new trainees in important areas of the health service. In recent weeks – though only when he was caught out – the Minister withdrew a circular covering payments to some parents of disabled children. I am particularly concerned that orthopaedic vascular surgery and older people's services will be prime targets for the next round of cuts.