Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Perhaps my earlier statement on the environment in which people were operating was overly bleak. Despite the huge progress being made, it is important to recognise that these are extremely difficult places in which to work, with real challenges from a governance and administrative point of view. Ireland is operating within that environment and from what I have seen, I am absolutely satisfied that we are doing as good a job as is possible in managing this issue. I thank the Secretary General, his staff and everyone else for their attendance. On completion of the investigation, I emphasise the importance of publishing the report in the manner in which the Department has to date. In their capacity as public representatives, members must deal with the question asked as to why, at a time when funding for respite care grants is being cut, money is being spent in other countries. Having seen it, I now know the answer, but not everyone will be able to see it. The way members can answer such questions is for the Department to continue to be as transparent about the work when it is completed. That will provide a good answer to that legitimate question.