John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

That is the greatest example of political waffle I have heard in this House for a long time and the Minister of State knows it. Her response merely describes what the issue is and does not in any way attempt to answer the question I put on behalf of the parents of those using the service.

The HSE gave a commitment and figures for funding have been discussed. In her answer the Minister of State has refused to even deal with it. The only point she made with confidence is that somebody is bending her ear. I can tell her that the ears of the HSE have been bent and yet it has not responded in the way that I would expect. It is dealing with the vulnerable and those who are in need of the service. They need a commitment from the HSE to tell them that they will have the money before the end of the year and to tell them that the money they require for next year will be there for them. Can the Minister of State not address that question and at least tell them so that they can take the anxiety out of their lives? It would also take the anxiety out of the lives of those who volunteer to help and contribute to Camphill, L'Arche, Tír na nÓg, and all the others who are trying to ensure they get the best for the clients they have.

It is regrettable. I cannot find words to describe it. It is an avoidance of the issue and failing to addressing what is a real concern for parents. The Minister of State could have used the opportunity to announce that it was at an advanced stage and tell them when they will get the money.

See this speech in context