Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)

I thank the Senators for their comments on the important issues the Government has been dealing with recently. We are determined to give them an urgent response including the provision of a range of protective measures in legislation. We are not dealing with these in this Bill as it is mainly about transferring authority and powers to my office. This Bill also ensures the HSE keeps me informed of matters relating to my portfolio and I can direct it to carry out investigations and compile reports on my behalf. It duplicates the powers already held by the Minister for Health.