Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 72: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the status of the Hanly report on medical reform; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4271/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I regard the report of the national task force on medical staffing as a significant contribution to the development of acute hospitals services and to the organisation of medical staffing. The report makes important proposals for reducing the working hours of non-consultant hospital doctors, NCHDs, in line with the European working time directive. It highlights the need to implement changes in medical staffing to ensure safety and quality of patient care and to reduce significantly the unacceptably long working hours of NCHDs.

The Hanly report recommends a significant increase in the total number of consultants, working in a consultant provided, team based system, so that patients can receive faster access to senior clinical decision making. The Hanly report also deals with medical education and training, with particular reference to the changes that will be needed in the context of a 48 hour working week for NCHDs.

Regarding the organisation of hospital services, the report proposes an appropriate way forward in terms of regional self sufficiency, investment in hospital services and the organisation of those services around hospital networks. In line with these recommendations, I will continue the Government's planned investment in new hospital facilities and additional consultant posts. I believe that this approach will be to the benefit of all patients.

The national hospitals office is best placed to further the recommendations of the Hanly report regarding hospital services. Mr. David Hanly, who chaired the national task force on medical staffing, will continue to be available for advice on the reform process.