David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank our guests for being present and I thank Deputy Colm Burke for allowing me to substitute for him. As the Chairman is aware, this centre is in my town. I have been familiar with it for a very long time. I personally knew many residents who lived there, some of whom are no longer with us. I have been to the centre on many occasions, so I know it quite well.

I am on record as stating that this situation could have been handled far better. The fact that it was to close in October and, obviously, there was no plan for the residents, as has now been evidenced, led to a lot of angst, disquiet, worry and so on among families and residents.

I think that is acknowledged by everybody involved. It could have been handled much better.

I wish to ask Dr. O'Brien a question about the kind of service that is currently being provided in the centre. It is a 24-hour staffed service. If the centre were not to close, would the service continue? Are there many other places in Cork or elsewhere in the country where such a service is currently being provided?