Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I am aware of Deputy McGrath's interest in the health area over many years. He has been cogent and articulate in voicing his opinions. I share his view. It is an obscenity that a person should not have treatment provided for them based on their medical need within a reasonable time scale. That is the reason the Government, in its programme for Government, plans to introduce a system of universal health insurance during the lifetime of the Government, to change the ways and the structures in which health services have been delivered.

I have met brothers and sisters of people who have died from cystic fibrosis due to infection of one type or another or due to the required medical treatment and facilities not being made available to them in the way the Deputy and I would expect. I support the proper provision of services for cystic fibrosis sufferers. I do not have all the relevant details with me but I will have the Minister for Health and Children provide the Deputy with an up-to-date report on the situation. Clearly, when we were on that side of the House we made the case for many years about the waste of money in the health service and how money should be redirected to providing proper treatment and services for all patients who need medical attention, although cystic fibrosis is obviously a priority. A state should be able to assist in such provision so people can be provided for in a healthy nation.

I do not disagree with the Deputy's sentiments and I will ask the Minister for Health and Children to send him an up-to-date report on it.

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