I propose to take Questions Nos. 104, 106 and 161 together.
I am committed to ensuring that the Hanly report is implemented in the best interests of patients. The recommendations will mean a much better service for patients, with considerably more consultants working in teams. The report also involves reducing the working hours of non-consultant hospital doctors, which will benefit both patients and doctors. In addition, the Hanly report proposes a reorganisation of our acute hospital services so that patients receive the best possible treatment in the location most appropriate to their needs.
Last month I announced the composition of an acute hospitals review group, to be chaired by David Hanly, for this purpose. It will be asked to prepare a national hospitals plan for the Interim Health Service Executive, building on the principles of the Hanly report. The group will be asked to examine the role and structure of acute hospital services on a national basis.
The Hanly report made specific recommendations on the organisation of acute hospital services in two regions, those covered by the East Coast Area Health Board and the Mid-Western Health Board. I recently announced the composition of the implementation groups in these areas. Both groups will prepare a detailed action plan for the implementation of the recommendations of the Hanly report relating to the organisation of acute hospital services in the two regions. They will also assess the detailed staffing and capital requirements necessary for implementation of the report.
The Hanly report also makes important recommendations regarding the reduction in junior doctors' working hours and the development of a consultant provided service. My Department and the Health Services Employers' Agency have initiated discussions with the medical organisations on the industrial relations and contractual aspects of these issues. I am committed to pressing ahead with the agenda set by the Hanly report so that the best possible services for patients are provided.