We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Seanad
‹ Order of Business

Senate representation on health strategy

Summary

Senator Burke objects to the apparent exclusion of Senators from the committee preparing a ten-year health strategy and seeks clarification.

I refer to the committee that was set up to carry out a review and prepare a document on the ten-year health strategy. My understanding is it is proposed that there be no Senators on this committee. I do not think we in this House should accept that decision and I would like clarification on the matter. There are Senators here who have medical experience, some having been nurses or having worked in the health service, and many are former local representatives who have a huge knowledge of the health service in their own area and have a contribution to make to a ten-year strategy. I was on the health committee for five years with two other Seanad colleagues, former Senators John Crown and Jillian van Turnhout, and the three of us were probably the best attenders at the committee that was then chaired by the current Leader of the House, Senator Jerry Buttimer. I do not understand why Senators are now being excluded from this strategy group and it is important the matter be clarified. I understand the committee has already elected a chairperson and that we had no say in it. I ask that we receive clarification on the matter at the earliest possible date. I am not sure who is making the decisions on it. However, this House should be part of that decision-making process. We have been excluded to date, which is wrong because we have a contribution to make. I want to be part of making that contribution and I am sure there are others in this House who want to be part of that strategy committee. I ask that the matter be clarified at the earliest possible date.

Comment on this