asked the Minister for Health if he will make a statement on the progress of his negotiations with the medical profession on the expanded health scheme; and if he is satisfied that the scheme can come into operation in April as planned.
28.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Health Scheme Negotiations.
27.
asked the Minister for Health when negotiations commenced with representatives of the medical organisations about the free hospitalisation scheme which he announced last August; and if he will make a statement on the progress of the negotiations and indicate when they are likely to be completed.
29.
asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied that he can reach agreement with consultants before 1st April, 1974, regarding remuneration for the proposed free hospitalisation scheme.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 27, 28 and 29 together.
Officials of my Department met the Irish Medical Association and the Medical Union on 7th December, 1973, in connection with the Government's intention, already announced, to extend eligibility for the hospital services from 1st April next. On 20th December, 1973, a meeting was held in the Department with representatives of the health boards and the voluntary hospitals.
Following these two meetings, persons were nominated to represent all the interested parties at negotiations. Meetings between the parties took place on 10th, 24th and 31st January, and a further meeting is to take place tomorrow.
With regard to the progress being made at the negotiations, I have taken note of the statement made by the medical organisations that they will not participate in the scheme unless agreement is reached with them, on the conditions of service for consultants. The negotiations are proceeding with a view to reaching such agreement. It remains my intention that the scheme will come into effect on 1 April next.
If agreement is not reached, is it still proposed to bring the scheme into operation?
It is not my intention right now to anticipate what the result of the negotiations and consultations will be.
Has the Department worked out the cost to the State, under the various forms of agreement that could be accepted, of salaries, fees for service and the combination of both?
These details are not available to me now. I gave the overall figures some time ago.
Does the Minister honestly and seriously believe that this matter can be resolved so that the scheme can be implemented on 1st April of this year?
It is my hope as I am sure it is the hope of the Deputy and his colleagues on that side of the House, that agreement will be reached before 1st April. I cannot say at this stage whether there can be agreement in such a relatively short time.