Joe O'Toole (Independent)

This is not the kind of material one would receive from Departments. For example, it shows that Ireland has fewer acute beds than the European average and is spending less of GNP than the European average. It also contains positive material from the Government's point of view. I am simply pointing out the issue.

It highlights work at ground level and particular counties, including County Longford in the Leader's constituency. Among other things, it reveals that Longford has twice the mortality rate from heart attacks and higher death rates from ovarian cancer than the national average. This is important information that Members can use to good effect for or against Government or to inform debates here. I compliment the section of the library and research service which produced it.