Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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159. To ask the Minister for Health if there is a timeframe for the review of the report of the Committee on the Future of Healthcare also called Sláintecare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31590/17]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I have no doubt that the publication of the Sláintecare report will come to mark a critical milestone in the history of our health service and can provide us with a solid framework and guidance for health services development over the next decade. We now have a cross-party report which enjoys widespread political support. I supported the establishment of the cross-party Committee on the Future of Healthcare and have consistently supported their recognition and understanding of the need to fundamentally re-shape our long-term vision of healthcare in Ireland. I have also welcomed the Committee’s report which is the culmination of a year-long process of unprecedented cross-party collaboration, dialogue and engagement.

An Taoiseach has made it clear that delivering improvements in our health service is a key priority for the Government. He tasked me with preparing a detailed response to the report including proposed measures and timelines. I hope to bring a detailed analysis of the report and proposals to the Government quickly.

I firmly believe that the report will be an essential reference point for all parties and governments over the next decade as we address the fundamental reform of healthcare in Ireland.