Government legislation and GP negotiations
Mattie McGrath raises opposition to wind-energy and EirGrid policy, alleged financial-company harassment, and the need to negotiate with GPs. The Taoiseach gives limited timetable information and says GP negotiations are affected by pending litigation.
I will do my best. I wish the Ceann Comhairle a happy Easter.
Comment on this
I thank the Deputy very much. I will have a very happy Easter if he obeys Standing Orders.
Comment on this
I will do my best. Thousands of people took to the streets today - when they could have been working on their farms or at home - to protest about what is happening regarding our policy on wind energy generation and EirGrid. The EirGrid Bill was pushed back from 2013 to this year but there is no sign of it yet.
In the context of the Central Bank (consolidation) Bill, when will the Government stop particular institutions harassing, intimidating and bullying people? There are five texts on my mobile phone which were forwarded to me by a farmer who received them from an individual involved in finance. That is intimidation and bullying. Those involved are breaking the code.
Comment on this
That individual is acting on behalf of a company called Everyday Finance and his behaviour is completely unacceptable. I will not mention his name.
Comment on this
The final matter I want to refer to relates to general practitioners, who are carrying this country's health service on their backs at present. In the context of the Medical Practitioners Act 2007 (amendment) (No. 2) Bill, when does the Taoiseach propose to negotiate with general practitioners? When will he recognise the role they play? They have known their patients for generations and they provide them with front-line services.
Comment on this
The Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy White, is engaging with the representatives of GPs on a regular basis.
Comment on this
As the Deputy is aware, a court case regarding whether negotiating rights should be given to GPs-----
Comment on this
Such rights should be given to them.