With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to deal with Question Nos. 108 and 109 together.
I am not aware that my statement has occasioned widespread disappointment. It is common knowledge that the Government has never accepted the proposition that the State has a duty to provide unconditionally all medical, dental and ancillary services free of cost for everyone, without regard to individual need or circumstances.
As I said in my speech to which the Deputies refer, my review of the health services is progressing well. I cannot say when it will be completed but the Deputies can rest assured that my recommendations to the Government will not be unduly delayed. I cannot anticipate the precise form of any decisions which may be taken by the Government arising out of it.