Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

I commend my colleague Deputy Brian Hayes on providing the opportunity for this important debate. Having listened to the contributions by Members on this side of the House, I am proud of what Fine Gael Members stand for. Their contributions show our true ethos. A Government Deputy asked where would Deputy Richard Bruton get the cuts if he were Minister for Finance. I can assure them the Fine Gael Party always stands up for people with special needs. That is why our party in Europe is a member of the Christian democratic movement. We stand for protecting the vulnerable in society. I have never heard such cutting debate as I heard on this important issue. As chairman of the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party, I can state that my colleagues will not stand by and allow cuts like these to be made. They are unfair to very vulnerable people.

Deputy Connaughton rehearsed a letter he received concerning a child with special needs in his constituency and I could describe many similar cases. It is unfair and unchristian of the Government to make these cuts. These are special children and their families are very attached to them. What the Government is doing is cruel and unjust, especially given its failure to consult the National Council for Special Education Needs or the report it has produced. Much voluntary work and effort has been invested in children with special needs and significant changes have taken place over the past several years. As a society, we have given a lot in terms of voluntary organisations and activities.

If this Dáil is to mean anything, we must stand up for these people. I urge the Government to heed our arguments. My constituents in Tipperary South have a long history of establishing organisations to help the vulnerable and those with special needs. If the Government reversed its decision, it could help these people.

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