Mr. Michael Harty:

We completely agree. We have absolutely no problem with genuine direct HSE provision by carers who are employed by the HSE. We fully understand such a system is needed. Our problem relates to the anomaly regarding section 39 funded companies not involved in internal HSE provision. They operate in the same way I do - they have zero hour contracts - but they do not provide quality care or give value for money. This was shown in the recent HSE tender, which was based on quality. I totally agree that we should ensure direct State provision by the HSE is properly funded and done correctly. This form of care cannot always be provided, however, as the capacity of the providers in question is not sufficient. We should bear in mind that there is a staff moratorium in the HSE and that demand for home care services is increasing. We are saying that when care is provided outside the HSE, there is a need to ensure it is transparent, based on quality and accountable. That is not the case with the €60 million spent on home help organisations. We think that anomaly in the market needs to be addressed. I totally agree that direct genuine HSE provision should be funded properly.