Mr. Philip Watt:

I thank the Chairman. The collaborative approach is very important. It is clear we will not have enough specialised centres or staff to deal with all rare diseases in Ireland, so crucial co-operation with our partners in the North is vital. The conference on Friday, which the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Alex White, is attending is crucial in that development. In regard to the point raised by Deputy Sandra McLellan, the most important thing is the issue around support for patient groups that are emerging. We had a meeting yesterday at which people were very upset that they are not getting any supports and did not know where to turn. It is unsustainable to have someone working so few hours. Wonderful though Ms Anne Lawlor is, resources for GRDO are essential.

I am glad the issue of the national office has been raised. That is probably the most important point we wanted to make today and to acknowledge Senator Colm Burke for his Adjournment debate and keeping the issue alive. We will need resources for that office. I think the resources will be relatively modest. I would not envisage more than €500,000 for an office of that size which will have the potential for savings but most of all decreased angst for parents who will not have to traipse from one Department to another, from one GP to specialists and others to try to get a clear diagnosis for their child. I am sure the national office, when up and running, will make huge savings for the health service down the line.

I acknowledge Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin's point in terms of the personal support. I am delighted to hear Mr. Declan McPhillips say he has been very supportive of the work of the group and has given the visibility through his own party. That is so important. That little bit of personal support and advice is what keeps people going. I thank him on a personal basis for that.