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

Deputy Reilly will not mind.

At today's meeting of the Joint Committee on Health and Children with the Ombudsman for Children, Ms Emily Logan, some of the issues in question were addressed. At the meeting I made the point that when I was a young child I knew that if one played truant or did not behave properly, one would end up in an institution where it was well known by society that something terrible would happen to oneself. I was concerned that in 30 years' time we will be looking back at this current generation of children, asking the same questions we are now. However, the reassurances from both Ministers and the Ombudsman for Children have allayed my concerns in this regard.

This motion concerns a question of trust. All of us go to a doctor or to hospital at some point. It is important people feel confident and safe when they do. The events concerning the hospital in question are appalling. I am glad the Minister has had an opportunity to meet the victims' group and give them reassurances.

I recall in 2004 when I worked with a Tallaght resident and victim of institutional abuse, Mr. Tom Sweeney, who was on a hunger strike outside the gates of Leinster House. That is an experience I will take with me throughout my political life, even beyond it. It was an occasion to hear about the suffering people in residential institutions went through and the difficulties they later experienced. I am glad Mr. Sweeney was able to visit the Dáil last week and I hope his recovery continues.

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