Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

First, I thank Deputy Pringle and Independents 4 Change for bringing this important motion before the House. It is very important for people to have the personal assistance they require and to be given every tool they need to live independently at home if that is what they wish and what suits them. It is paramount that every person, regardless of the different issues the person must live with, is allowed to get the most from his or her life.

I thank the Minister of State for the proactive approach he has taken in County Kerry. Every time he was asked to come to Kerry, including by me, he came. He helped us with a situation in the north of the county and he is now helping with a situation in south Kerry with regard to respite services. To be blunt, he is not found wanting. The Minister of State knows that I would not heap praise on him only for the fact that I tell it as it is. He is a person who listens to us about the issues. He would be the first person to say that everything that is being done is not perfect and that we must do more, but he has done much good work in his role. On behalf of the people who have benefitted so far from that work I thank him, but there is a great deal more to do.

It is a good day when the rights of people with disabilities and different needs are debated in the House and time is given to the subject during which Ministers must come here and be accountable for their roles and for the roles of people working in the Department. It is a good day for the people who need assistance and need us to be proactive on their behalf. I thank the people who have come to the House this evening and who were here earlier for taking the time to listen to this debate. Again, each time we approach the Minister of State for something for Kerry we will want him to listen to us as he has done in the past.

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