James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am nearly finished. I am very grateful to Senators for their forbearance.

Senator Kelly made a number of excellent suggestions. It is eminently sensible to share facilities to give services in areas, particularly where the populations are small. We would need to examine the suggestion regarding community employment schemes. While it is a great suggestion, there are issues that would require negotiation. I will certainly inquire about ArtAssist for peripheral vascular disease.

I thank all the Senators who contributed. We have had a very good debate and I am looking forward to further debate during the remaining Stages of the Bill in the Seanad. I am more determined and committed than ever to introduce these changes and to fix the health service. However, I am more convinced than ever because of the new leadership that is emerging at the top of the HSE, in the Department and hospitals. I am sure Senators join me in thanking them and those who work on the front line for the excellence of the work they do.