asked the Minister for Health the plans he has to change the structure of the health boards; if he intends to reduce the number of health boards and if he will make a statement on the matter.

As I informed the Deputy in reply to Question No. 72 on the Order Paper for 7 November 1985 and again in reply to Question No. 135 on the Order Paper for 12 November 1985, my proposals on the reorganisation of the health services are being considered by the Government.

Perhaps the Minister will answer specifically the question he was asked — whether he intends to change the construction of the health boards in view of his having been critical of their present structure?

I have put comprehensive proposals to the Government in relation to the reorganisation of the health services and these proposals are currently under consideration by the Government. I cannot elaborate further.

Is it true that the Minister is anxious to reduce the number of health boards to four?

I may be even more ambitious than that.