Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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It is a significant area of difference. It is all in the ability of the individual to deal with the situation. All present know people who have dealt with serious disabilities and other people who have other disabilities but just do not have the confidence to get involved to the same extent. We are familiar with the issue. It is appalling that it has taken this long. I cannot remember who designed the scheme but they must have gone out of their way to make it impossible to qualify for it without going to the most extreme measures. There are still people who do not qualify and have been dismissed but will be coming back. If members agree, the committee should do its bit, contact the Minister and keep our guests informed. They should be kept informed of the progress we are making. Is that agreed? Agreed.

I thank Dr. McDonagh and Dr. Scaramuzzi for coming before the committee and giving of their time and expertise. I thank the members who contributed in person and virtually.

The committee stands adjourned until 12.30 p.m. on Wednesday, 18 May, when we will meet in private session in advance of the public session at 1.30 p.m. We will meet with representatives of Ulster Bank and KBC, and later with representatives of AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB, to discuss the impact on customers and banking of the withdrawal of Ulster Bank and KBC from the Irish market.