Middle East statements and health budget
Deputy McDonald requests statements on Gaza and asks about a supplementary health budget; the Tánaiste supports arranging a debate and refers health funding to the budget process.
I am sure that like many people the Tánaiste is watching the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East with great concern and is aware of the ongoing suffering of people in the region, particularly those who live in Gaza and Palestine. Is it planned to take statements on this matter in the House?
The HSE is facing a €400 million deficit this year. In that context, does the Government plan to bring forward a supplementary budget on health?
Comment on this
I have no difficulty in making time available for statements on the deteriorating situation in the Middle East, particularly Gaza, if the House so desires. Arrangements in that regard can be made among the Whips and we will try to facilitate the debate.
All issues relating to health are matters for the forthcoming budget and the Estimates process. It is less than three weeks to budget day and those issues will be dealt with in that context.