Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The contributions of both members and witnesses have been very thought-provoking. There was reference to the importance of not taking the sparkle out of people's lives, to use Ms O'Connor's phrase. Certain words have come across strongly this morning, namely, culture, urgency and legislation. The most powerful message, which was from Professor Kelly, is that we are the system, that we, both us as legislators and the various groups, organisations and the people within them, must be very mindful we have a very important role to play, and that no matter how hard the door is locked against us, we must keep banging on it if we believe the cause is right. We need always to remind ourselves we are the system and to keep pushing the boat to ensure the system is people centred and will advance the rights and livelihoods of those receiving care and, indeed, those of the greater population. That is very important.

I thank the witnesses and members for their powerful contributions, for their patience this morning and the time they have given to the committee and to our fantastic background team.