Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)

Several Members asked about the resource implications of the Bill. There are no resource implications for St. James's Hospital because it already produces a range of other products and is incorporating this function into its existing large volume of work.

As Senator Cullinane noted, projected savings are €3.2 million. That is to be welcomed and I agree with the Senator on the considerable potential for achieving efficiencies across the health service's €13 billion budget without impacting on front line staff. That was the thinking behind the comprehensive review of expenditure and work in this regard is ongoing between the Department of Health and the HSE. The €3.2 million in savings will be achieved despite an increased volume of work because the 19% commission charged by the IBTS is being removed.