Mr. Damien O'Reilly:

Regarding the first question about the hours, I would have to rely on my mum for support during the evenings, at night-time, weekends and at other times when my PA is not there. I do not have sufficient hours to live a fully independent life. As I explained, I have to rely on my mother to fill in.

That is one of the problems with getting involved in organisations. It is great to be involved but you are losing hours spending time being involved. I have often travelled to Dublin for meetings and although they were really worthwhile attending, when I come home I have to ask my mum to give me dinner because all of my hours for the day will have been used travelling to the meeting. This is the problem. People want to be involved in organisations or consultations but they cannot sacrifice their hours and they cannot do it without the support. I hope that answers part of the Senator's question.