Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

There is a record number of people working in the health services, which reflects the fact that a record level of activity is taking place. For example, the number of day procedures in hospitals is at an all-time high. As we draw the debate on this Bill to a conclusion, it is worth placing on the record of the House the fact that the country's health services do a fabulous job. There are some very good and highly-motivated people in the health sector. Substantial public resources have been invested in the health service and, although there will always be problems because it is a difficult area, the legislation has provided a good framework for the future.