Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

I endorse the call by many colleagues for a debate on the health services but for a different reason. The Health Service Executive, HSE, is seeking a review of funding of more than €500 million for what are termed front-line services, comprising primary care, community care and continuing care, on the basis of value for money. If front-line services are affected to this extent, what will be left for anybody in need of care? This brings us back again to the dirty dozen cuts. Last week the Minister for Health and Children stated through the HSE that an ambulance service will not be available for patients, except those in special categories who seek transport on an ongoing basis. It is proposed to withdraw the reimbursement of moneys paid by primary care patients for drugs. Front-line services are being dismantled. It is of the utmost importance that the Minister should come to the House and state whether she is in charge of the health service or whether the HSE is doing it its way.