Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 518: To ask the Minister for Health the level at which major policy decisions are taken affecting the health services throughout the country; if such changes are initiated by him or the Health Service Executive or a combination of both; if he will indicate in terms of seniority and responsibility the persons engaged in such discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32904/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Government's agenda of health reforms are set out in the Programme for Government. Broadly speaking, all major policy decisions relating to that agenda and to the health services generally are made by me. Policy formulation is a core function of my Department and many of my policy decisions are informed by advice and briefings I receive from senior officials in the various policy areas of the Department, and, where appropriate, following consultation with the Health Service Executive (HSE) and other relevant stakeholders. Since the HSE has statutory responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services, its primary focus is on operational policy matters.