Louise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I have one final question and it relates to the scope of practice for healthcare assistants. It is fascinating that the matter is still being discussed since there is a willingness on behalf of the trade unions to expand the scope of practice. In its submission, SIPTU states: "To this end we suggest that the Review of the roles and responsibilities of HCA is given full endorsement and that the support and the resources it needs are provided, so that this role can be developed along a cohesive and professional pathway." That is motherhood and apple pie. That sounds great. Will Mr. Bell give us an insight into why that is not happening? It seems, on paper, like a good idea. When one of the first reviews of it was done, perhaps 12 or 14 years ago, it was probably a fairly good idea. SIPTU is calling here for it to be "given full endorsement". Will Mr. Bell outline who is not endorsing it in the first instance?