Resources for adequate health services
Mr. Power argued that services were suspended or at a standstill in some areas and urged the Minister to seek more resources. Mr. Creed said the service under discussion was reviewed annually and would be considered again when funds became available in 1982.
I have some compassion for the unfortunate position in which the Minister of State finds himself in this instance, but the answers we have had here today have contained reference continually to items that are being reviewed and to the resources available to the Department. Would the Minister not agree that it is obvious now that not alone have the health services been suspended in some areas but that there are areas in which they have come to a standstill? Is it not high time that the Minister demanded the resources he needs in order to provide an adequate health service?
Comment on this
There is nothing peculiar or strange about the statement I have made because it is the procedure to review the service in question each year. This will be done at the beginning of 1982 when funds will become available. In this respect we are acting in accordance with normal procedure.