Mary Henry (Independent)

I am very concerned about the lack of specific details regarding funding for education and training. The only reference in the section states that the HSE should give advice to the Minister on medical and dental education and on all other matters, including financial matters with regard to the development and co-ordination of specialist medical and dental education and training.

I refer to the example of England where there have been significant cutbacks in the national health service because finance has been given priority instead of training and education. However, money is needed to maintain what we hope is the high level of training in this country. It would have been better if ring-fenced moneys had been referred to in this legislation. I can foresee cuts again in the area of study leave and training courses because they all cost money.