James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I agree with the acting leader of the Opposition, Senator Finucane, that the health service in this country is in total chaos. Senator Minihan had a drowning man's grip on the PDs and the Tánaiste when he spoke on this issue. The system is still top-heavy with administrators. We have too few doctors, nurses and beds in our hospitals. That is the bottom line and where the problem lies.

The Government abolished the health boards, stating at the time that they were the problem, and established the Health Service Executive. The problem persists and the Government has failed to address the situation. People throughout the country feel let down by the manner in which the Tánaiste manages the Department of Health and Children. They are waiting in the long grass to make a statement at the next general election.