Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for his response. The Minister, Deputy Harney, recently addressed the Seanad on her vision for the health service. As I told her then, I agree with her vision but have difficulties with the practicalities of its delivery. It is clear from today's discussion that we support the principle of designated centres but the timing and state of development of these services present problems. This was dramatically illustrated today in the letter from Mrs. Coburn and the comments of other speakers regarding the experiences of patients in these specialist centres. Senator Healy Eames spoke about the pressures that Galway faces at present.

The Minister of State may be correct to note there is no precedent for our amendment but it offers an important triple lock given what we hear about the designated centres and the delays in developing radiation oncology services. This House would have an opportunity to review and evaluate patients' experiences in the designated centres compared to their experience in St. Luke's. The Joint Committee on Health and Children would be able to find out what has actually happened as opposed to the theory of what should happen. The theory on designated centres is excellent but the practice lags far behind. This amendment gives a safeguard by allowing the joint committee to determine whether St. Luke's strong ethos and positive experience for patients are retained.

This is why I have proposed amendment No. 1 and the reason we will press it to a vote. I hoped the Minister would, as she originally indicated, accept it. Senator Quinn spoke about listening to patients. The testimony of these patients is striking when it is compared to what we learned about the experience in designated centres. I am disappointed the Government is not accepting the amendment because it would allow us to take the appropriate decisions on the basis of patients' experiences.