Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I thank the Chairman for the opportunity to raise the matter of the scandalous cutbacks in services for cystic fibrosis patients, particularly at St. Vincent's Hospital. I call on the Government to stop this criminal cut, a term I do not use lightly. CF patients should not need to fight, protest or appear on radio shows to get their services. Some 1,135 CF patients need to be supported and the proposed 30-room national centre at St. Vincent's Hospital forms a major part of the health strategy.

Some 300 patients use St. Vincent's Hospital, approximately 10% of whom are regularly on-site. For this reason, the 30 beds are urgently required. I demand that the project be continued as a priority and I urge the Government to listen to CF patients and their families. I feel betrayed by the Taoiseach, the Minister for Health and Children and the Minister for Finance, who promised months ago that the project would not be touched. They broke their word to me and to the CF families. They are now discussing private backers. Shame on them for this disgrace. The project, costed at €30 million, has already started and the plans are set to go. As well as saving CF patients, it would provide jobs in the construction sector, which comprises another aspect of the scandal.

I commend Dr. Charles Gallagher and the team at St. Vincent's Hospital. I thank Orla Tinsley and every other CF patient for their dignity and bravery. I urge the Government not to turn its back on such great people. Last week in the Chamber, I tabled proposals on funding and taxation in support of the unit. A few cents on a pint would sort out the problem in the morning. It is time that the Minister and the Government got real, listened to the majority of people and taxpayers and funded this necessary service.

It is time for tough decisions. Real courage means standing up for CF patients. I also urge common sense and ask people to consider the future for the patients and their families. I pledge my support to all CF families and I will continue to fight for services. I urge the Government and the Minister of State to reconsider the cut and to support the funding of a 30-bed CF unit at St. Vincent's Hospital.

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