James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Question 284: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if the review into how effective the Health Service Executive is working, as promised in the programme for Government, has commenced; the person who is conducting the review; when the review will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11501/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I have recently received the report from Mr John Fitzgerald in relation to the decision to suspend breast radiology services in Portlaoise Hospital. This report has identified that the problems arose fundamentally from systemic weaknesses of governance, management and communications within the HSE in dealing with the situation which arose in Portlaoise. I have asked the Board to consider whether the lessons arising from the systemic weaknesses of governance and management which have been identified in relation to the events at Portlaoise have wider application across the HSE. To this end, the Chairman of the Board of the HSE and I have discussed the need to optimise the HSE's operational capability by addressing issues such as:

robust governance and management structures, processes and procedures;

clear reporting relationships and lines of accountability;

having permanent top level managers in key posts;

good systems of delegation; and

a strong sense of corporate identity which permeates all levels of the organisation.

I have asked the Board to consider these wider aspects and to let me have its assessment of the overall situation as a matter of urgency, and its proposals to address matters, as soon as possible.

In the light of this development, and pending receipt of firm proposals from the HSE I have not decided at this time to initiate the review referred to by the Deputy.