Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputies for their valuable contributions to the debate, and I really mean that. I very much welcome that we were able to bring the legislation through all Stages in the Dáil today. I express my gratitude to the House for allowing it to go through so quickly so we can move to have this important service available to carers as quickly as possible, on 1 September.

One of the many challenges for the health and social care system is to do everything possible to support the most vulnerable in society. This includes supporting carers to ensure they are able to undertake the vital role of caring for their family or loved ones. I thank colleagues for their support. I have listened to the constructive proposals they have put forward and I will include some of them in my negotiations in the programme for Government because we need to do more for carers. This is a step in the right direction, but it is a positive step and it is something we should acknowledge.

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