Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the Chairman's remarks on the contributions. I commend Deputy Ferris on her work on this legislation and Senator White on her previous work. It is important that their work be recorded. I support the legislation. This is not an issue of equality in society but of common sense.

The Chairman will be delighted to know that I only have two short questions. I encountered something in the disability sector. I speak as a former chairman of the Dublin branch of Down Syndrome Ireland. Has any of the groups present ever encountered a complete breakdown in services for people with intellectual disabilities because people who have worked therein for years have been forced to retire? A major problem emerged, given the relationship between the older members of staff and adults with intellectual disabilities. As parents, we encountered this breakdown. Often, the role of senior citizens who work with adults with intellectual disabilities is not recognised in broader society.