Martin defence

Health Minister Micheál Martin robustly defended his health reform proposals, accusing the opposition of brazen scare-mongering.

Mr Martin said a blueprint was now in place to protect and develop local hospitals, that stemmed from local input in the two pilot areas where task forces have been established to deal with the Hanly recommendations.

“The situation is that the local hospitals and the communities they serve will play a full part in deciding their future. That future will protect on-site, 24-hour medical cover ... It also allows for the serious development of extra services,” he said.