Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I am concerned about the absence of the 34-bed figure, although the Taoiseach mentioned a 20-bed figure that could go as high as 34 beds. Before the last general election, the Labour Party, Sinn Féin, the Independents and all the Government parties agreed on 34 beds. The new Members of the Oireachtas should be aware of that. Deputies such as Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin and a current Minister of State, Jan O'Sullivan, were very supportive of a 34-bed unit. There should be no messing with the figures or saying that the 20-bed unit can go to 34 beds.

The Taoiseach mentioned Charlie Gallagher, whom I know very well. I worked with him very closely over the past number of years at the cystic fibrosis unit in St. Vincent's Hospital. He and all the other professionals and parents want 34 beds. Accommodation for 100 beds is currently being built so surely we can get 34 beds without any dithering. I suspect there is something going on in the background between hospital management, the HSE and the Department of Health and Children, which is part of the problem. Is there a turf war between the HSE and the Taoiseach's Department? In the past four or five days I have been under the impression that he has been on the case.

People like Orla Tinsley have done much work on cystic fibrosis so the Taoiseach might consider nominating her as one of the 11 nominees to the Seanad. That would enable a voice in here for cystic fibrosis patients.

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