Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I had not planned on speaking and I will not hold up the proceedings of the Bill, but I speak as a parliamentarian with a conscience. I am a spokesperson for children and youth affairs. Earlier this morning, before I came to the Dáil, I read on Facebook about what was happening in Apollo House. Whether it is right or wrong, in the week before Christmas those people need a roof over their heads. I am emotional about it. It is very easy for us to walk down Grafton Street and pass people who are putting down a bed for the night. It is not right. That is the social conscience in me.

Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett and I are on completely opposite sides of the fence. However, he has asked for heat and electricity for the people in Apollo House for Christmas. I am saying the same, for Christmas, if that is what they need. I have a good understanding, and I can believe there would be very little communication as to the right way of going about these things. Sometimes it is easier to get up and give out, and there are processes. I do not know what process there is, other than coming here today and asking. It puts the Minister on the back foot and it is hard for him to answer. I know there are processes and avenues and good communication and I, above all, know the Department works very hard and the Minister, along with all the spokespersons in the House, has taken his brief very seriously. However, as Deputy John McGuinness and Deputy Fergus O'Dowd said, there is frustration out there.

Let us show the heart, if it can be shown. Let some communication happen. There are 2,500 homeless children in Dublin. There are people putting down their mattresses in front of shops on Grafton Street. If it gives them comfort over Christmas, and if Focus Ireland and all the other people are on board saying this is what we need to do, then let the plumber in.

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