Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

Ba mhaith liom fáilte a chur roimh an Aire Stáit don díospóireacht tábhachtach seo. There is no topic that has been given such attention over the last decade as health and much ink has been used on the subject of health issues. This is not just an Irish phenomenon. It occurs in our neighbouring island and countries in mainland Europe. It is obvious for many reasons that where there is an ageing population, such as in Europe, people have a greater interest in ensuring health sector services are of the highest standard.

There has been a significant investment in the Irish health services since 1997. Expenditure has increased from €3.5 billion in 1997 to €10.2 billion this year. Not everybody would agree that the improvements in the service have been commensurate with the very significant increase in expenditure. Some of the criticisms are unduly focused on hard cases. The comments made by a number of Senators reflect the general opinions of those who use the health services. In general there is an overwhelming satisfaction with the service provided, particularly in the hospitals. That is not to say there is not the occasional criticism. Last year over 1 million in-patients were treated in our hospitals and the number of those treated since 1997 has increased by 200,000.

The numbers employed in the health services have increased significantly, from 68,000 in 1997 to 95,800 last year, a 40% increase. Much of the problem stems from the many vested interests in the health services and in the administration of the health services. This was a structural fault in the regional health boards.

The national treatment purchase fund is a very worthwhile initiative by the Minister for Health and Children. Approximately 11,000 patients who were on the waiting list since 2002 have been treated under the scheme.