James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

I appreciate the Minister has moved some way to meeting our concerns with some of the amendments she alludes to. Some amendments were discussed earlier in a batch rather than individually. I seek indulgence to be able to go through these amendments as some are without objection from me as the Minister of State has come some of the way. If I looked for 15 days, for example, the Minister of State has given me ten, and that is fine. I do want to be specious in disputing such matters. There are areas where the Minister has not moved and I would like the option of having them addressed individually so we know which we are dealing with.

The Minister of State used the term "administrative ease" a number of times in her speech. I accept we all want efficient administration and we do not want to make it any more difficult for administrators than is necessary. My concern, which ought to be shared by the House, is for the elderly and citizens who must avail of these nursing home facilities. Administrative ease will always take second place, as far as I am concerned, to the needs of our elderly and the protection of their rights.

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