Sinn Féin TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has been selected to chair the Oireachtas Health Committee for this Dáil. Teachta Crowe welcomed the nomination saying “it is a great privilege to be asked to chair such a vital Committee in the Oireachtas and I will try and ensure that the Committee holds the Department of Health and the HSE to account in order that it delivers for all our citizens”.

Teachta Crowe said:

“It is a great honour and privilege to be selected as Chair of the Oireachtas Health Committee. I will be the first Sinn Féin TD to hold this position and look forward to working with my northern counterpart to deliver joined up thinking when it comes to health and wellbeing of all our citizens of this island.

“The role of the Health Committee is hugely significant in holding the Department of Health and HSE to account in order that it delivers for everyone. I believe that, in a time dominated by the COVID crisis, the Health Committee takes on an even greater role in Irish society.

“I intend to work with all parties and none on the Committee to hold the Department of Health and the HSE to account. There are huge challenges in the Health Service and  far too many seriously  ill citizens are find themselves without supports; be it lengthening waiting lists, patients on trolleys, a lack of mental health and language supports, the challenge of accessing addiction services, ongoing problems in our nursing homes or the pay and conditions of health care workers. These are all serious challenges that need to be scrutinised and addressed in the months to come. The roll out of Sláintecare and ensuring the primacy of public health care over private is also an area that needs attention.

“Chairing this Committee is a heavy responsibility, but I believe also a great opportunity to bring leadership and try to do things differently.”