Health debate
The Chair noted there would be several health debates in the coming months, and the Leader again stressed the seriousness of long delays and HSE staffing growth.
I agree fully with the Senator that a seven-month delay is inordinately long when people require an access pass, sticker or licence to park. In some cases, the parking space can be outside someone's door, in a church car park or a shopping centre. The point raised by the Senator is important.
Senator Colm Burke referred to Ireland's ranking in the World Economic Forum's democracy index, which we welcome. The figures portrayed for the increase in positions in the HSE and its management structure beggar belief. It is important that there be a rolling debate on health.
I apologise again to Members for the change to the Order of Business. If it is agreeable, we will not take No. 1 first but suspend the sitting until 2.45 p.m. when we will take Committee Stage of the Sea-Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2017.