Kevin O'Keeffe (Cork East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wholeheartedly support the motion tabled by Sinn Féin. I echo what Deputy Michael Moynihan said about the invaluable work done by the management and staff at St. Joseph's in Charleville. They work beyond the call of duty.

We heard the Minister of State announce earlier that he welcomed the increase in funding in the HSE service plan. I hope he will deliver accordingly and fairly around the country. At the end of the day, if the staff are not paid proper wages, we cannot expect them to continue the way they are going. In recent years, Cobh community hospital has operated on a shoestring budget. Up to a few weeks ago there was a threat to close down the hospital, the only community hospital on the great island of Cobh.

While section 38 and section 39 organisations have different paymasters, they do the same work and provide the same services. I ask the Minister of State to support the motion.

See this speech in context