The report today that the half-year deficit in the HSE may rise to €300 million, with a further increase by the end of the year, certainly raises a continuing issue over transparency regarding the healthcare budget, the needs of the healthcare services generally and the role of the Government in its interaction with the HSE and the Oireachtas. Invariably, we are never presented with a full, transparent picture in advance of the budget. Last year, a deficit of approximately €140 million was shoved into this year. The problems will continue to build if there is not a proper, transparent assessment of need. There was some indication that Storm Emma and the influenza issue at the beginning of the year might have been factors. One third of the deficit is due to shortfalls in income, according to the Minister for Health in a response in May. The figures in the media today are real and have been confirmed by the Minister. Rather than just continuing with his defined role as a detached commentator on health matters, the Taoiseach should note that, as an Oireachtas, we need far more transparency than we are currently getting on health issues.

There is no legislation promised on this but it is certainly a matter on which the Ministers for Finance and Health are working. Part of the problem is transparency. The Government is not hiding anything. It is difficult to follow the money in our health service. We know there are overruns in many areas, and we do not know exactly why. It is certainly not because of increased output. It is not that 7% more patients are being seen or that 7% more operations are being carried out. Expenditure is increasing while output is not. In some cases, even attendances are not. We are trying to get to the bottom of the reasons for the overrun. When we do, will deal with the matter, sooner rather than later.

The Oireachtas needs transparency from the Government. The Taoiseach is responsible.

I am.