Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not have the figures sought by the Senators. I am sure the HSE will provide them and, I, indeed, have sought them.

Senator Higgins made a fair point about procurement that is very much aligned with Dr. Scally's findings. He did not quite say this but he certainly alluded to the fact that during certain years, price became a bigger ratio than it had been previously. That is something we need to reflect on. I personally think we need to reflect on an even broader point, namely, how to arrive at a point where we can provide these services in our own country. In terms of Sláintecare, the agreed health policy and the road to universal healthcare, there will always be a need for outsourcing but we should not be satisfied - I am not satisfied - that if we need X-rays done today, we still must bring in private contracts to help to breach gaps in the public health service. Over time, we must try to lessen that reliance, while accepting there of course will always be a degree of procurement and outsourcing in contracts. I take the point made by the Senator and I am happy to further engage with her on this broad matter.