Maria Corrigan (Fianna Fail)

I ask the Leader to arrange to have the Minister for Justice and Law Reform, Deputy Dermot Ahern, come before the House to debate how to engage with vulnerable adults in the justice system? Myriad issues need to be addressed, including how to deal with adults with an intellectual disability or mental health issues who make allegations of abuse. In recent years tremendous supports have been introduced for children to engage and interact with the justice system, but supports have not been introduced for adults with an intellectual disability or mental health challenges to similarly engage. This could be done through the provision of specialised training for gardaí or the provision of support when giving evidence. It is essential that the mental capacity Bill is advanced.

I have been struck by other speakers' contributions and share the collective view expressed on all sides that we must find a way forward. Optimism and hope are vital. This is not a time for political point-scoring. People are feeling low and have reached the end of their tether. When we are low, our resilience and capacity to cope are reduced. It has never been more necessary for the people to be resilient or have a strong capacity to cope. While the Seanad has a responsibility to play its role in promoting this, as a public service broadcaster funded by the State, RTE must also discharge its responsibility to strengthen people's resilience and capacity to cope. Every week I hear stories of suicide and distress. If supports were in place, we could make a difference in that regard.