Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

Before the change in the business of the House, I was reminding the Minister of State of the neglect of the elderly, with specific reference to the callous attitude of recent years whereby even the homes they have built up and paid for over the years must be taken from them before they qualify for any kind of nursing home care. Incidentally, such care does not come cheap, as we know.

Another recent announcement concerned the closure of all psychiatric hospitals. I know it was heralded on the other side of the House with great applause, foot-stamping and the general acclamation that accompanies such serious announcements. Perhaps we will shortly hear that the various psychiatric institutions will be sold for urban development or apartment complexes. As one who has spent some considerable time on a health board, I hope that the promised community care follows. If it does not, the other side of the House, and everywhere else, will reap the whirlwind.

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