Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

On the same proposition in respect of the fair deal legislation and the proposals contained in it regarding funding for nursing homes, is the Taoiseach indicating he will not attempt to rush the legislation through the House before Christmas? Will the Taoiseach confirm there will be the necessary further consultation required to address and assuage the fears of many older citizens? In tandem with this, will the Taoiseach indicate whether the eligibility for health and personal social services Bill, in which there is a clear overlap and connection, will be brought forward and whether both Bills can be addressed simultaneously or one after the other? There is a clear relationship between the two.

It is 12 months since the long-promised debate on collusion was recommended by the Oireachtas sub-committee on the Barron report. In the absence of legislation, we have had debates and statements on a variety of issues in recent weeks, but this debate has been committed to and there is no signal of intent to accommodate it. When is it intended to have the debate on collusion and will the Taoiseach accommodate it before the Christmas recess?

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