John Dennehy (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

The Dáil has been recalled one week early, devoting itself to this matter today and tomorrow. Some Opposition spokespersons complained about these arrangements, stating that it was a waste of time. I disagree because we will not discuss anything more important than health care reform and administration. My constituency colleague, Deputy Martin, began reform of the health service and it has been a top priority for the Government since then. It was always likely to be a long and difficult process, immersed as we were in the old methods, practices and thinking.

I was not happy that reform began with disbanding the former health boards which were a public forum.

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