Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I reiterate to the Deputy that unfortunately the Minister cannot be here and that he would like to be here. I have been asked to take the Topical Issue on his behalf and I have noted many of the Deputy's concerns.

Organisations, such as Purple House in Wicklow and in my area, do wonderful work. Those who work in them are filled with compassion when dealing with adults and children recovering from cancer. Funding is one of the main issues that all of these organisations face. The services these organisations provide could not be sustained if it were not for the support on the ground, contributions and voluntary fundraising. I would like all such organisations to be funded directly through the HSE and the Department. Unfortunately, that is not the case. However, I will relay the Deputy's concerns to the Minister. I agree with some of them and he made his point about Purple House clearly. I will ask the Minister to reply directly to the Deputy.

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