Pearse Doherty (Sinn Fein)

I thank the Minister of State for his positive response. I wish to raise two points with him that I outlined in my original contribution. First, the date of 2015 is to be welcomed, but we need to ensure we meet it. I am not convinced or satisfied that we will have to buy this service again. It should be integral and jointly funded for the north west, rather than something the people of Donegal buy off Altnagelvin.

Second, the Minister of State's answer did not deal with the service level agreement for patients from Donegal to access Belfast City Hospital, which I believe is up for renewal. Is there any threat of that not being renewed, given the economic climate? I note from the Minister of State's response that the Minister wants to enhance further the arrangements already in place. I take it therefore that it is probably not under threat, but can he clarify that? I also intend to have this matter raised in the Northern Ireland Assembly directly with the Minister, Mr. McGimpsey. I would appreciate if the Minister of State could forward his replies to me concerning those questions.