Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I seek the adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 32 to discuss an issue of national importance and concern, namely, the urgent need first, to actively support the Jack and Jill Foundation which for 13 years has provided front line home care and respite services to families of children who are born with or develop brain damage and who suffer from severe intellectual and development delay; second, to commend it on its work with the 1,200 families by providing home visits, practical advice and emotional support; third, to recognise the fact that the annual cost of hospital care for a severely disabled child is nine times more expensive compared to the home care provision from the Jack and Jill Foundation; and, finally, to call on the Government and the Minister to actively support the foundation with its funding needs in 2010 and 2011 and to make this a major priority.

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