Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Question 343: To ask the Minister for Health and Children his views that a package of incentives should be introduced in order to stimulate the delivery of primary health care centres across the country; if he has engaged with the Department of Finance on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12340/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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The development of Primary Care Teams and Primary Care Centres is a priority under the Programme for Government. The aim is to significantly increase health and social care in local communities. This will be achieved by increasing activity in the primary care setting and by redirecting services away from acute hospitals to the community.

The introduction of incentives to stimulate the delivery of primary care health centres across the country was recommended by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children in its Report on Primary Medical Care in the Community published in February 2010. Among the incentives proposed were the introduction of Capital Tax Allowances, Stamp Duty Relief and Rates Relief. These recommendations were not advanced by the previous Government.

My Department is engaged in consultations with the Health Service Executive with a view to accelerating the provision of Primary Care Centres. The need for incentives will be considered in that context.

Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 344: To ask the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Offaly will obtain an appointment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12354/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.