Mary White (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)

The Deputy in question, Deputy Reilly, did not rebut this during a Private Members' Bill. Members should check the record. This debate on access to health care is so vital and the various options that are possible, such as universal health insurance, must be continually considered. I believe in compassion, a word not often bandied about in politics, but I want to use it now. In tough times we need more of it. Budgets must be balanced but a caring society is one built on social justice and equity. Compassion must be factored into all of our legislation. People make our country what it is. People matter and so too does fair and equitable legislation.

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