Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

Regarding the Taoiseach's earlier response to the nursing homes support scheme Bill, he is implying it has been delayed because of a request by the Opposition. It is important to put the record straight on this matter.

The Bill's provisions were announced by the Minister for Health and Children 12 months ago. There has been little legislation in the House since September. The main reason it has been delayed is because the Government has not got its act together to consult with the relevant agencies and bring the legislation forward. The Opposition asked, to which, in fairness the Taoiseach agreed, that the legislation not be rushed through the House in the last days before Christmas and an opportunity to be given to different organisations concerned to be consulted before the Bill's publication. It is important the record is put right.

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