James Bannon (Fine Gael)

The Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney, is going around the country for photo opportunities which are worth nothing. The Minister would be better occupied in ensuring that help lines are fully manned. This matter has been raised by members of the public including the elderly who have complained in my clinics that help lines are mismanaged. Elderly people who dial a helpline number get confused because they must wait quite some time to receive guidance or obtain an appointment. It is extremely frustrating for them. The Minister should ensure that such services are properly constructed before establishing help lines.

The Minister has been pretending to open health services throughout the country. However, in the midlands in particular, there is evidence that facilities are promptly closed once she has left. Photo opportunities are only worthwhile if what has been promised is delivered upon. On this legislation and on other issues, I want to see action from the Minister, not false smiles. People want the Government to provide proper health services. Recent surveys have shown that health services have deteriorated since the Minister took office.