Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Bill has been carefully drafted to ensure section 7 relates to the need for the new body to abide by Government policy, insofar as it relates to ministerial directives and guidelines. This important standard provision is essential in this case because we have to ensure the national specialised paediatric hospital, which will receive significant public funds, will deliver a safe service of a high quality. Section 6 relates to the objects and functions of the new body. Among its functions will be to "provide for patient safety and quality of patient care", to "promote excellence in the practice and provision of paediatric services" and to "advocate on behalf of children and young people about healthcare issues". It is clear that the focus of the new body will be on the care of patients. It will ensure the clinical operation of the hospital will be driven by the objectives of improving, motivating and protecting the well-being of children. Accordingly, I do not intend to accept amendment No. 4.