Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

Amendment No. 149 in my name reads:

In page 24, line 27, after "complaints" to insert the following:

"provided that any regulations in relation to the time within which a complaint must be made, shall include provision for the extension of such time on the showing of cause for such an extension".

This amendment deals with the whole issue of complaints, enforcements and determinations. This amendment would add to the Bill and give it more depth. Some people have major concerns about the legislation and the whole question of rights and services. We have to make the effort before the guillotine comes down at 1.30 p.m. to do our best to ensure the needs of people with disabilities are reflected in the legislation that will emerge today and which will be discussed and developed further in the Seanad. I am trying to ensure that people with disabilities are respected and shown true equality, that there is an accommodation in the legislation and in the service provision and utmost respect and dignity given to people involved in the complaints procedure.

There are many complaints out there and it is not a question of gaps. Yesterday I referred to speech therapy services in Waterford and the residential, respite and day care waiting lists on the northside of Dublin. When people have complaints in regard to these issues they should be listened to. We are trying to ensure that people with disabilities are included in the service provision, that their differences are accommodated and that they are respected as equal members of society.

I ask all Members to support amendment No. 149 because we are trying to strengthen the legislation, despite its flaws. We are trying to include people with disabilities and deal with the issue of complaints and the extension of the regulations.

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