James Reilly has no intention of quitting his job
Responding to speculation he was on the point of resignation last week, Dr Reilly dismissed the notion he would step down.
Referring to his failure to attend a conference of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, Dr Reilly said: “I was resigned last week to go home and recover from a Strep throat and it took me four or five days to do so.”
Visiting a young offenders institute in Dublin, the minister remarked that rumours of his “resignation have been greatly exaggerated”.
Dr Reilly insisted he was still committed to bringing in universal health insurance and that remained his focus for the remainder of this parliament.
“That would be my intention but I am not in control of my destiny in all these matters — there are large buses in Dublin that could see me out,” he said.
Asked if he could be moved in a Cabinet reshuffle expected after the May 23 local and European polls, Dr Reilly said: “That is a matter for the Taoiseach. I believe I am doing the job as well as anyone could be expected to do it.”
Dr Reilly has been under mounting pressure regarding the withdrawal of medical cards across the country, as well as his continuing inability to get a grip on massive health budget over runs.
“I believe we’ve made huge progress but the Taoiseach has to look to the broader picture, he’ll do that and I’ve no doubt make the decision as he feels best befits him to do and I respect that,” said Dr Reilly.
