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Seanad
‹ Order of Business

Health service and political responsibility

Summary

Senator O’Neill and Senator Byrne argue over the Health Bill, the two-tier health system and responsibility for past policy, while the Chair repeatedly seeks a relevant Order of Business question.

Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

That is not relevant to the Order of Business.

Comment on this

I am not quite finished, a Chathaoirligh. As Senator Darragh O'Brien said, we have been waiting two months to speak.

Senator Thomas Byrne made reference, in regard to the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Bill 2012, which we will debate this afternoon, to the existence of a two-tier health system. I remind the Senator that his party was in power for 14 years and had ample opportunity-----

Comment on this
Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?

Comment on this

Yes; I am getting to it. The Fianna Fáil Party was in government for 14 years. When the Minister for Health, Deputy James Reilly, was in opposition, he brought forward various proposals on how savings could be made. Senator Byrne's comments regarding the Minister were uncalled for.

Comment on this
Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

Will the Senator put a question to the Leader?

Comment on this

Senator Byrne's party created this two-tier Ireland in the Galway tent.

Comment on this