Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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I thank Ms Sloan, members of her family and friends for attending. We were all shocked to learn of the passing of her daughter, Emma, at Christmas. The witnesses have given us an insight into the tragic circumstances that can cause people to pass away in a short time.

I was struck by the use of the phrases "common sense" and "good faith". Politicians are sometimes thought not to have any common sense. I have had the privilege of being a member of a committee that shows an abundance of common sense. If I was walking down a street and saw someone experiencing breathing difficulties, it would be common sense to run to the person and provide, in good faith, as much help as possible. Whatever took place on the day Emma died was done on the basis of common sense and in good faith. No one present can comprehend the events that occurred in Dublin city centre that day.

I give a commitment that the joint committee will do everything in its power to ensure the wishes expressed by Ms Sloan are fulfilled. We must meet the Minister to discuss the implications of this tragedy and ensure no other child or adult is left in the position in which Ms Sloan and her daughter were left on the day in question. I express my sincere thanks to Ms Sloan for speaking so openly and with such love and affection for her daughter. I ask the Chairman to make arrangements to meet the Minister for Health, Deputy James Reilly, with a view to having legislation introduced as soon as possible on this matter.