Dáil debates

Tuesday, 5 December 2006

Health (Nursing Homes) (Amendment) Bill 2006: Report Stage (Resumed)

 

6:00 pm

Photo of Caoimhghín Ó CaoláinCaoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I will be brief. This amendment would make a small concession and give an opening to the Department with the term "exceptional circumstances". One could describe any number of reasons for embarking on an earlier review as exceptional circumstances. It is a non-definitive term. In the majority of subvention cases there is at least a 12-month settling time.

Many difficulties arise with this legislation. The core difficulty which led to a division on the Order of Business this morning is the continued intention to include the primary residence — the family home — in calculating the subvention. This is outrageous. At a recent engagement with HSE representatives in the audio-visual room in Leinster House Fianna Fáil Members, including former Ministers, stated they strongly opposed this approach. They spoke in absolute defence of the exclusion of the primary residence. I accept it would be a different story if an individual had multiple homes. Since I last spoke on this matter, prominent Fianna Fáil Members have stated they are in agreement with my argument and that of other Opposition Members. Why is it that this objectionable approach to the calculation of a subvention will be railroaded through by a guillotine motion this evening? It is outrageous and a disgrace.

The Bill should have addressed this matter in a holistic, caring and humane fashion. It will only compound the pain and hurt of so many. It will not only affect the person who needs care but also his or her immediate family. During Private Members' Business, at the 11th hour, I suggest the Minister of State consult those Members from his party who attended the meeting in the audio-visual room before he expects the House to endorse the legislation. It must be brought back to the drawing board. Nothing else will be acceptable. For those of the Minister of State's colleagues who will vote for the provision but hold an opposing view on it, twice the shame on them.

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