Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for her response and welcome her commitment to have this unit reopened as quickly as possible. She is absolutely right that respite is hugely important to those families who need and deserve it. They work to keep loved ones out of full-time care and everybody needs a break from that level of work. There is unfortunately still confusion as to whether the posts are funded. That is the crux of the matter. There are two issues. The first is whether the posts are already recognised and funded and the second is to get the staff to ensure those posts are filled. I suggest that one is easier than the other. We need certainty from the HSE and the Minister of State that these posts can be filled and then there is the challenge of filling them. I understand the need to ensure St. Anne's is prioritised. However, at the same time we want to ensure the respite beds are available. I would appreciate continued engagement on this matter over the coming days.