Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We are looking at 45 job losses. If we were we talking about the Minister of State's constituency, the equivalent would be 1,200 job losses. The staff have been given 20 working days notice. That does not show that the Irish Wheelchair Association is acknowledging the contribution of the staff. The staff have also been told by management that there are no, or very minimal opportunities, for redeployment.

The Minister of State has just told the House that the Irish Wheelchair Association is suspending its respite services for five months until the new service comes into play next March. That is totally unacceptable to the service users. Finally, under no circumstances will we in the community will not accept the removal of equipment which was fundraised for by the local community and was funded through the Exchequer being removed from the Cuisle facility because we believe the facility has a viable future as a going concern. We plead with the Minister of State to ensure that there is an extension of 12 months to allow us to put in place a viable alternative.

See this speech in context