There was an extraordinary announcement the other day from the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform in reply to a parliamentary question regarding a potential Supplementary Estimate for the health area before the end of the year. There have been denials since last June that there would be any form of Supplementary Estimate in any Department, but we have highlighted a potential budget overrun of massive proportions in the Department of Health.

When will the Supplementary Estimate come before the House? Will Deputies be allowed time to debate it in view of the cutbacks on home help services, other attacks on front-line services and the diminishing funding available for people with disabilities and other key areas? Will the Minister provide a commitment that the House will be able to discuss the budget overrun and inability to manage the budget?

When is the Supplementary Estimate due?

The Departments of Health and Public Expenditure and Reform are in discussions on the provision of a Supplementary Estimate, the precise amount of which has not been finalised. Further significant cost reductions are required in 2013 and 2014. Given the need to meet pressures on hospital services arising from demographic changes and the reform commitments made in the programme for Government, the initial indications are that substantial savings will have to be made again next year in the cost base of the health sector. While I am not able to give a date for taking the Supplementary Estimate, as the Deputy is aware and subject to the approval of the Ceann Comhairle, it is usual practice for Supplementary Estimates to be subject to debate and discussion in the House. I am sure the Whips will make such an arrangement when discussions on the Estimate have been finalised and decisions taken.