asked the Minister for Health if he will make a statement indicating when he expects to be in a position to implement the proposals contained in the White Paper on the health services.

80.

asked the Minister for Health the cause of the delay in introducing the proposed new health legislation.

I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 79 and 80 together.

The proposals in the White Paper— such as the expansion of the district nursing service and the improvement of the services for the care of the aged —which do not call for new legislation are being progressively implemented. The time of implementation of the proposals which require new legislation will be dependent on when it is enacted.

I told the House on 29th October last that it was intended to introduce this legislation in the present Session. The Government wish, however, that the special commemorative Session of the Dáil on 21st January next should feature the introduction of a Bill which is desired by all sides of the House. The Health Bill seems fitted to this and it is accordingly proposed now that its introduction should be deferred until the special Session.

This will not interfere with the timetable for the consideration of the Bill by the Dáil, as the text will be circulated at the same time as if it were introduced in the present Session.

(Cavan): Can the Minister say when it will be circulated?

Immediately after the 21st. In fact it will be available for circulation before the 21st.

Can the Minister say whether some people will not come under the free-for-all service; and will he make a decision so far as the filling of some posts is concerned? The position in Cork is serious.

Another occasion might be more appropriate to discuss it.