Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

That was because people took early retirement which they are entitled to do. They may be on maternity benefit, which they are also entitled to, or they may be out sick. They are entitled to do all that because that is the structure we have in this country, which we all buy into.

If Croke Park II is passed, the additional 1,000 nurses will help the issues of staff shortages and health care. I hope it will be passed.

I never make political points but we are in this position and we need to do it. However, if the renegotiated Croke Park II goes through, it will be a triumph for the Government. It will stand us well in the future. I applaud all concerned, including the unions and the Government negotiators.