James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I agree with Senator Henry in regard to the availability of information from the Department of Health and Children. In recent days health boards received letters from the Department of Health and Children regarding the preparation of their plans for 2003. The health strategy, Quality and Fairness, is in a shambles. Serious concerns are expressed by public representatives, particularly members of health boards, in regard to funding for 2003. Dictatorial letters were issued by the Department of Health and Children which read as follows, "The Minister for Health and Children has stated—