Mary White (Fianna Fail)

I will not become involved in detail because it has been spelled out adequately by Senator Minihan and there is no point repeating what he said. Reform of the health service is the most important issue facing the Government after putting the peace process in place in the North. We hope discussions taking place with the Taoiseach, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Northern Ireland parties this week will bring the situation to a fruitful solution.

My husband, as a young civil servant, worked in the Department of Health and Children and had the privilege of working alongside Donogh O'Malley when he was Minister for Health. I was party to many discussions that took place and I am not surprised by the state of the health service today. We cannot, therefore, blame the Minister, Deputy Martin.