Health reform unity - Give plan a chance to succeed

Reforming and then sustaining public-health systems has become one of the greatest challenges facing governments across the western world.

The project is more often than not an ideological battleground, although the characteristic conservatism of Irish politics means that may be one maze Health Minister James Reilly might not have to negotiate in his efforts to establish an universal health-insurance scheme.

The project is always, and probably always will be, one of the great consumers of public resources. Despite all of these obstacles, an efficient, one-tier, easily accessed health system is a prize worth fighting for.