It is now four years since the motorised transport scheme was discontinued and there has been much talk in recent months as to when a new scheme could be up and running. Will the Minister indicate exactly his timeframe for the introduction of the new scheme under the health (transport support) Bill?

I am not in a position to give a date. I know the Taoiseach has also answered a question on this in the past. It has been a difficult issue. I think he signalled during the week that he would ask the Ministers involved to get together to see whether a resolution might be found. It is a matter of working out a workable and affordable scheme. I believe that is the position on the matter and the Taoiseach signalled earlier in the week that he hopes it can be advanced.