Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

I am not familiar with Dr.McConkey's observations. First, to refer to Deputy Ó Caoláin's comments, of course I am not suggesting there would not be any visiting but it is unreasonable to have virtually open door visiting from maybe 10 a.m., and sometimes earlier, until 10 p.m. That is difficult for staff but particularly for patients. Certainly in places where patients are sharing rooms, it is extraordinarily difficult.

Policy on patients differs. I remember as a child being in hospital and my parents were told not to come and see me until the end of the treatment, and apparently they looked in the window. Nowadays parents are encouraged to come and stay with the children. In the period since I was born the position has changed.

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