Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein)
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I welcome the witnesses to the meeting this morning and thank them for their presentations. I echo the Chairman’s apology on behalf of Deputy Ó Caoláin who could not attend this morning. I have a few points to make and questions to pose.

With regard to the Irish Hospice Foundation, I am aware that Marymount Hospice in Cork is very well regarded and is the subject of many fund-raising activities. The work of the hospice staff is truly heroic. The point on staffing and resources is well made. Has the Government or HSE indicated at any stage whether additional funding will be made available? Are witnesses aware of whether there are commitments on additional beds?

I have a query on what was said by Ms Patricia Rickard-Clarke on the need for end-of-life proofing of homes. It is an interesting proposal. What would it involve and are there any countries to which we should look as an example in that regard?

Professor O’Shea highlighted the fact that there is a substantial challenge in terms of qualifications and training. He made the point that there are significant gaps in qualifications and education. What courses are available and do additional courses need to be provided or can the shortfall be met by other means?

Dr. McCarthy made some interesting proposals on clinical ethics committees. A point was made in a later presentation about a stand-alone entity. What is her view on such a proposal and could it deal with the need for a change in culture, which she flagged? Would it aid clinical ethics committees and what form should such an entity take?