Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

I am very grateful for the opportunity to speak on this Bill which is just one of a number of Bills aimed at protecting some of the most vulnerable in our society. It is unfortunate that legislation such as this is not already in existence but I am pleased to see this Government implementing what is long overdue.

I listened with great interest to Deputy Boyd Barrett who made a great case for special needs provision. I agree with him but I have one question for him. Will he give us one way in which we can raise the money he spoke about, which is needed? It would be great to have more special needs facilities, more housing and all the items he mentioned. Where will the money come from? He should not give us the usual line he gives us week in, week out, about not paying the bondholders.

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