Michael Brennan (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the report, its findings and the many challenges it presents the Government. I compliment the Minister of State on the comprehensive report which also outlines past achievements. I have no doubt that, with the Minister of State's experience, his commitment to the health services and his service to the Mid-Western Health Board throughout the years, if any Minister will implement the findings, it will be him. I wish the Minister of State well with his responsibilities in regard to youth and children.

Yesterday was an important one in Limerick because an eight year old girl was honoured for her bravery by the President, having undergone three bone marrow operations to save the lives of her three brothers. I appeal to the Minister of State to consider the lack of a paediatric immunologist in the country and I have no doubt that with his experience he will have the position filled on a national basis. Each health board may only have to cater for a small number of people but there are 500 sick children and perhaps the Eastern Regional Health Authority and Crumlin Hospital could meet the need. I wish the Minister of State well in the years ahead and ask him to implement the findings of this report.