David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

This is a problem not just for the Minister for Health, the Government or the Opposition; it is a problem for the nation. The health service is chronically dysfunctional, and playing party politics with the issue is of no use at all. The reality is that every party played a role in the disaster we are now facing. It was indeed Deputy Micheál Martin, as Minister for Health, who disestablished the existing regional health authorities and set up the Health Service Executive, but everybody considered it a good idea at the time. Unfortunately, the then Government lacked the courage to take on the bureaucracy that carried over from the previous system. As a result, our ratio of administrators to primary care deliverers is twice that in the neighbouring island of Britain. That is one of the most serious problems with the system.

This issue should be examined on an all-party basis. With that in mind, we might recommend that it be referred to the health committee. The principal job of the committee at this time should be to review the operation of the health service. I have had a wonderful experience of the health service and cannot speak highly enough of it. The treatment I received was the best in the world. However, I have platinum-plated insurance for which I intend to continue paying. I would not mind if I were bringing other people on board by paying extra. That does not bother me; it is how society should work. Another member of my family who was treated in the public system when she was critically ill some weeks ago received superb care. We should be careful not to dishearten the people who are working in the health service.

We must address the problems in accident and emergency departments, which are clogged up by utterly self-indulgent alcoholics and drug addicts who make a total hames of the place. There should be safe containment facilities for such people to ensure they do not endanger the health and well-being of hospital patients and staff. We are far too tolerant of that type of anti-social and dangerous behaviour.

To reiterate a point I have consistently made, we must exercise great care in taking on full responsibility for European legislation. Today, as on most days of late, several instruments relating to European legislative matters are set to pass through the House without debate. That tells its own story. It warns us that we should be very selective and prepare very well if we are taking on this important responsibility. There is certainly a role for the Seanad in this regard, but it must be done in a particular way, with adequate resources and adequate time. Nor should it detract from our primary obligation, which is to review legislation.