The Taoiseach again did not answer the question. I reiterate that he did consult me in advance of the preparation or publication of the package of Dáil reforms. He said he would, but he did not. He broke that commitment which he gave on many occasions during Taoiseach's Questions.

With regard to the health Vote, will the Taoiseach confirm whether there will be a Supplementary Estimate? Mixed messages emanated yesterday. The Minister for Health indicated that he would introduce such an Estimate, while the Taoiseach indicated that there would not be one. My main concern is that we are getting reports from all over the country that surgery is being cancelled in hospital after hospital. The number of cancellations has increased dramatically because of a shortage of funds in many hospitals. The tightening is unreal and a significant number of cancellations is taking place. Inpatient and day case waiting lists have dramatically increased in the past few months and I fear that the three months before Christmas will be bleak for many patients. I would appreciate clarification on whether there will be a Supplementary Estimate.

I said yesterday that the situation in so far as the health Vote was concerned had improved dramatically and considerably from what it was last year at this stage. At this point last year more than €250 million had been spent in excess of the Vote, while currently the amount is in or around €60 million. There are difficulties with the demand-led schemes because of the problems experienced during the winter. The health Vote is down from €16 billion to its current level. The Minister has made it clear to the Department, the HSE and its agencies that they are required to bring their Vote within the agreed ceiling. The pressure is to see that is brought back into line. The position has improved considerably from what it was last year, but it is not yet where it needs to be.

The Minister said the opposite yesterday. He said there would be a Supplementary Estimate.

That is the position and the same applies to every other Department.

Do I take it, therefore, that the Minister was incorrect yesterday when he said he would not keep them within the limit?

I am sorry; we are not having a debate.

The Minister merely pointed to the reality of the current situation. Obviously, in preparing for a difficult budget-----

The Taoiseach is talking double Dutch. I do not understand. The Minister said he would spend a small bit over the limit, but the Taoiseach said he will not. I know he follows the Dutch model, but this is really double Dutch.

I am not talking double Dutch or double Irish.

We are not having a debate on this issue.

The problem is that every Minister is required to do whatever is necessary to bring his or her Vote back into line.

The answer is "No".

As far as the health Vote is concerned, it is in a better position than it was last year, but it is not yet in line with what was agreed.

Will there be a Supplementary Estimate?

The Minister is working hard to see that that happens.