Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I have no argument with continuing the provision of day care centres. As I stated, we spend €1 billion annually on the care of the elderly. Every year, we have increased resources in this area and opened more care centres and community centres. Many of these are helped by excellent voluntary community workers, who raise funds and give assistance, sometimes by providing land. All of these services are greatly appreciated and help to provide the service.

The capital programme in health has been allocated €600 million for this year. We are constantly providing new and additional services for senior citizens, including longer hours, in complexes and adjacent to health centres. I am sure all of us, as public representatives, attend openings and meetings to lobby for staff and improved services. The situation is improving and I accept this must continue. The Deputy's point is that we should continue to do that, and we will.

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