Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
1733. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied that there is adequate provision in the Sláintecare report for the potential for cross-Border co-operation and the delivery of health services on an all-island basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34580/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Sláintecare report was produced by the all-party Oireachtas Committee on the Future of Healthcare, which was established to devise cross party agreement on a single long term vision for health care and direction of health policy in Ireland. In its report, the Committee recognises the need to “Brexit-proof” any measures that relate to cross-border initiatives or services.
The Committee recognised the potential of cross-Border co-operation, which has already seen important developments in recent years, such as in co-operation on cancer services. The Sláintecare programme of reform will take full account of the potential of further cross border co-operation. Within this context the implications of Brexit will be fully considered. My Department and its agencies have been conducting detailed analysis on the impacts of Brexit in the area of health. A number of issues are being examined and contingency planning for a range of eventualities is underway. A key issue will be to ensure that there is minimum disruption to health services, and that essential services are maintained on a cross-Border, all-island and Ireland-UK basis. My Department is working closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade which is co-ordinating the Government's overall response to Brexit.
A Sláintecare Implementation Strategy was approved by Government last week and I expect to publish it in the coming weeks. In addition, a Sláintecare Programme Office is being established to drive forward this programme of reform.
I would like to assure the Deputy that the implementation of this reform programme will take full cognisance of and will be supportive of the ongoing cross border cooperation between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and the delivery of services on an all-island basis as appropriate.
