Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

While I understand he has visited, I certainly will tell him again that the Deputy wishes him to do that.

The Minister has made clear that he expects all the changes that will happen in the new year, as well as the new actions, will address the problems with the process. He has stated clearly that if this does not happen, further changes must take place and he will address that as well. Most Members are aware that it is not satisfactory. A key part that probably will help is the establishment of the access points around the country in health offices to support and assist people to make applications because all Members are aware that at present, many people believe they must approach the office of a Deputy or a Minister to try to get help with the process alone, that is, with the forms and so on. They should not be obliged to do this and should not think they must go to that level. Ultimately, I believe the access points will address that issue and should address the handing over and the seeking of information. However, the Deputy is correct that it would not be good enough were any information to get lost or mislaid and the Minister also is clear at that point. The changes arising from the external review and the recommendations regarding the processes across the board should make a difference. It certainly should put right matters and the Minister expects that to happen.

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