Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

That is horrendous and I took the view that it needed to be highlighted this morning once again.

One common theme that comes across from the contributions of the two panellists and from the contribution of Dr. Crowley as well is the need for training and a growing understanding, awareness and acceptance. That is what it all comes down to, but I am heartened by the findings highlighted by Dr. Crowley, including the finding that 74% of the respondents are seeking training. That is encouraging.

I understand how difficult all of this can be across the board and without exception, irrespective of the circumstances of people in terms of financial backup and support and familial backup and support. What is the position among people from poorer backgrounds? What about the medical card dependent community? This affects people across the board. I am asking the question because it does not come across in what I have seen to date. Are trans people and transition procedures covered by the medical card? What services, treatment and therapies are available on the medical card? What after care and continuing care is available to those dependent on the public health system? Does the HSE and the Department of Health fund TENI or any other support group and, if not, why not?