Cork North Central TD Colm Burke has been appointed as Fine Gael Spokesperson for Health by Tánaiste and party leader Leo Varadkar.

Mr Burke has served as a TD since securing a seat in the General Election earlier this year.

“It is an honour and a privilege to be appointed as Fine Gael Spokesperson for Health,” he said.

“This is an area in which I have had a particular interest for a long number of years.

“I have been a member of the Oireachtas Health Committee for more than nine years and have recently again been re-appointed to it,” he added.

“The Covid crisis has emphasised the need for a stronger and more efficient healthcare system.

“I will work hard in my role to ensure that Fine Gael will develop healthcare policies that benefit everyone, especially during these challenging times.

“We must take effective action to reduce the current waiting list for medical procedures. That may involve working with private hospitals for the delivery of some of these services.

"I look forward to raising important local health issues here in Cork North Central and also at a national level.’’ Deputy Burke concluded.

In addition to his role as Fine Gael Health spokesperson, Deputy Burke will also serve on the Public Accounts Committee and the Oireachtas Health Committee.