Limerick East): In line with the provisions of the programme A Government of Renewal £8 million has been provided this year to continue the progress of the past two years in reducing waiting lists. The detailed allocation of the resources provided this year has yet to be finalised. However, as in the past two years, resources will be allocated to those areas where the waiting times for surgery are excessively long. Discussions with health agencies will commence shortly with a view to identifying those areas where the additional resources available this year can be employed to maximum effect.