Smith apologises to the Taoiseach

The Minister for Defence issued an apology to the Taoiseach last night for publicly objecting to proposals put forward in the Hanly Report on the healthcare system.

Michael Smith said he was opposed to the implementation of Hanly recommendations in his own North Tipperary constituency which would mean Nenagh Hospital would be downgraded.

His remarks have dogged Dáil debates during the week.

But in his statement, Minister Smith says he regrets his intervention on the status of Nenagh hospital, and wishes the government to return to its normal business.