FF accuses Health Minister of 'chicanery' after decision on care centres

on 27/11/2012 15:55:13

Opposition parties have attempted to increase pressure on Health Minister James Reilly regarding his handling of the development of primary care centres.

It follows the release of documents under the Freedom of Information Act showing that Minister Reilly added two locations in his own constituency to a priority list the night before a Government announcement.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny defended Minister Reilly, saying that while nobody is perfect, he is leading changes at the Department of Health at a difficult time.

However, Fianna Fáil leader Michael Martin said that Minister Reilly should be removed from his position.

"With the exception of Minister Shortall, who took a principled stand, knowing the chicanery that was going on behind the scenes, she resigned in opposition to Minister Reilly's actions, and indeed the actions of her fellow Ministers," he said.

"And I think the Freedom of Information does reveal a shambolic and chaotic decision-making process by Minister Reilly."