Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 November 2020
801. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the status of the restructuring and reform of the HSE; when this will recommence; the new timeline for delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36798/20]
View answerThe Programme for Government commits to ongoing implementation of the Sláintecare vision at the highest levels through the “Cabinet Committee on Health, chaired by the Taoiseach, giving overall strategic direction, and overseeing the implementation of Sláintecare”. The Government recognises the need for enhanced governance and accountability in the health service, including through the formal appointment of the Health Service Executive (HSE) Board in June 2019 and the introduction of a new HSE Chief Executive Officer.
The new Regional Health Areas geographies were announced in summer 2019. A work programme for rolling out the regions was developed pre-COVID in early 2020, but work was put on hold as a result of the pandemic. In accordance with the Programme for Government, which states “Bring forward detailed proposals on the six new regional health areas to deliver local services", a business plan for the establishment of these health areas is expected to be brought to Government for its approval in due course.
