Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

This is a significant and important debate. I am glad the Minister for Health and Children is in the Chamber listening to our contributions and is aware of our concerns. Some cynicism has been expressed about Fianna Fáil backbenchers' views on this issue. Sometimes it would be handy moaning and crying about everything like the Opposition. I have been in the House for five years and I have settled into my work as a Fianna Fáil backbencher. We care about and are affected by all these issues.

Some colleagues referred to rural communities and pharmacies. From my accent, Deputies will know I cannot claim to have a rural background. I am from an urban background, an inner city child who now lives in Tallaght, the third largest population centre in the country.

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