Dáil Éireann - Volume 305 - 06 April, 1978

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Integration of Departmental Functions.

Dr. O'Connell Dr. O'Connell

223

13. Dr. O'Connell asked the Minister for Health the proposals, if any, he has for integrating the functions of [223] the Health and Social Welfare Departments.

Mr. Haughey Mr. Haughey

Mr. Haughey: I have not at present any plans for such integration.

Dr. O'Connell Dr. O'Connell

Dr. O'Connell: Is the Minister aware that in an interview a few years ago he said it was imperative that there should be an integration of these two Departments? Has the thinking changed meanwhile?

Mr. Haughey Mr. Haughey

Mr. Haughey: That was in a different situation.

Dr. O'Connell Dr. O'Connell

Dr. O'Connell: No, it was in 1973 that he said it was imperative that these Departments be integrated.

Mr. Boland Mr. Boland

Mr. Boland: He was in opposition then.

Mr. Haughey Mr. Haughey

Mr. Haughey: At present I do not see any need to integrate them.

Dr. O'Connell Dr. O'Connell

Dr. O'Connell: What happened in the meantime to change the Minister's mind?

Mr. Boland Mr. Boland

Mr. Boland: He is in government now.

Mr. Haughey Mr. Haughey

Mr. Haughey: There are a number of changes. The general structure of the Government has been changed in some important respects. This would be a major change which I do not think necessary at present. I am not saying what the situation would be if there were some new reorganisations of Government Departments.

Dáil Éireann 305 Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. Integration of Departmental Functions.

Questions

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