Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael)

The Tánaiste must have watched the programme on the disgraceful situation at Leas Cross. The health information and quality authority Bill was proposed as long ago as 2003. At what stage did she decide she would include the social services inspectorate in the Bill? Why are there so many delays? This should have become a priority. It was already well known that the Tánaiste wanted to introduce the Bill before the Leas Cross scandal. It became a priority for the Tánaiste, the Taoiseach and the Minister of State, Deputy Seán Power, this day last year. Only the public consultation aspect has finished. I did not make a submission to the Tánaiste because I consider it more appropriate to make my submission here where everybody is supposed to be held to account. I know the Tánaiste is inclined to take matters out of the House to take away democratic accountability but that is not right. What is the reason for the hold up? Why can we not move quickly and have the legislation by the end of October or November?

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