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Dáil
‹ Order of Business

Children’s hospital and HSE governance

Summary

Billy Kelleher asks about publication of the Dolphin report on the children’s hospital and the scheduling of the HSE governance Bill, while also making an inadmissible comment about departmental conflict. The Taoiseach says the HSE Bill is before the Seanad and the Dolphin report will be published after ministerial recommendations reach Cabinet.

I would like to raise three matters. First, when will the Dolphin report on the children's hospital be published? Obviously, it is very important. We would like to have an open debate to make sure all elements of the decision-making process are transparent, which was not the case when decisions were being made about primary care centres. Second, when will the HSE governance Bill be brought to the Dáil? The Taoiseach is aware that chaos is now looming in hospitals across the country that have huge budget deficits. Third, can the Taoiseach confirm whether any advances have been made in the peace process between the warring parties in Hawkins House? Has peace been restored?

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Seán Barrett An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

That is not promised legislation.

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Another noise nuisance.

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Peace between the warring parties is needed if we are to get some semblance of normality back to the functioning of the Department of Health.

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Seán Barrett An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

The Deputy has raised two matters that are appropriate on the Order of Business and made one comment that is not to be commented on.

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We need Kofi Annan.

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It might fall under the disarming weapons Bill.

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Bernard Durkan Deputy Bernard J. Durkan Fine Gael

The Deputies would want to think about the day the health boards were abolished.

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Is there a ceasefire or not?

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Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

Deputy Kelleher's follow-through is not as good as it used to be. The HSE governance Bill has been published and is before the Seanad.

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I know that. When is it expected to be taken in the Dáil?

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Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

Obviously, Senators have a view on it-----

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The Taoiseach ignores them.

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Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

-----and like to hold onto Bills and debate them articulately and comprehensively.

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I thought the Taoiseach was trying to get rid of them.

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Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

Is the Deputy suggesting that while the Seanad is in existence, it does not have the right to debate these Bills?

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That is what the Taoiseach is suggesting.

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Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

The Dolphin report has been in the possession of the Minister for some time. He will bring his recommendations to the Cabinet in due course and the report will then be published.

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