Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

The proposal to allow a free vote is the only way to give Members an opportunity to participate properly as representatives of their respective constituencies. There are Members of the Taoiseach's party who do not agree with the Government amendment and are of one mind with the selection of no confidence motions put down by each of the three Opposition parties. I have no doubt that there are others who will ignore the reflection of the mandate they secured in their respective constituencies and vote confidence in the Minister in all circumstances. However, the undeniable fact is that the people, across all opinion and none, have no confidence in her, but it goes beyond her. They also have no confidence in the Taoiseach because of his stewardship, in tandem with the Minister, of the delivery of health care in the State. This is the single most important issue affecting the daily lives of ordinary citizens. The template visited on the north east and the people of County Monaghan, in particular, will be coming shortly to a town near you.

Those representing constituencies throughout the length and breadth of the State should be mindful of the intentions of the Government, the Department of Health and Children and the HSE. The nightmare that the community I am proud to represent has had to live through in recent years will be part of the reality they will face in the years ahead. It is time to say "No." It is time to stop looking at the agony of the people of County Monaghan and other Border counties and to stand up and say "Enough is enough." Tonight, the way to demonstrate it is to test the position. The Government should open the opportunity for a free vote. If it is so confident——

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