Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

With regard to the two pilot projects, has there been an assessment, with the exception of the Trinity College report, of the extent of public knowledge in the two pilot areas of the out of hours or 24-7 service? While the Minister cited the number who have taken up the opportunity, it is important to assess awareness. Having accessibility without awareness does not address the issue.

It ought to be a no-brainer that accessibility for 24 hours per day is extremely important. It is of little doubt to any of us here that the times of greatest risk are during the evening, at night and at weekends. Social worker support is not just a matter of provision from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday. This does not address the real need. We need to assess the real need and ask whether the pilot projects have identified it. Has the Minister further information on awareness? Does she accept that everybody wishes to see the service rolled out as early as possible?

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