The health service plan has been delayed by about one month. Every day we hear stories of chaos, with children being denied discretionary medical cards or unable to return home from hospital because home care packages have not been provided. The Taoiseach has agreed that profoundly deaf children should have bilateral ear implants. When will the health service plan be announced in order that the House can discuss it?

The Health Service Executive requested an extension of days from the Minister to conclude its work on the service plan. This request was granted and while I am not certain of the date, I believe the plan is due to be presented to the Minister on 25 November. He will then have three weeks to consider it and make recommendations to the Government. The plan will then be debated in the House. Issues such as cochlear implants and the other matters raised by the Deputy may be considered for inclusion as part of the service plan. I have received a number of representations on specific issues which are important, if small relatively speaking. The issue the Deputy raises is one that is for consideration for inclusion in the service plan.

Will the Taoiseach provide a firm date in order that I do not have to try to calculate it?

I cannot indicate on what date the service plan was due to be submitted before an extension of ten days was granted. The date for submission is, I believe, 25 November, but I will confirm the date later. The Minister will then have three weeks to consider the service plan presented to him, at which point we can debate it in the Chamber.