Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour) | Oireachtas source

While I have been in the Chamber for the past 40 minutes or so, someone the Taoiseach knows well, John Wall, has been in touch to say he has rejected the Government's proposals in respect of the terminal illness card. The proposals in the long term as regards finance, communication and other matters are quite laudable and I welcome and endorse them. However, this does not do anything for those who are facing into a terminal illness in the short term. It does not guarantee cards. I want to read a quote of what he says. He says he would love nothing more than to dedicate whatever time he has remaining solely to his family creating memories that will last and not pursuing a campaign to implement a programme for Government commitment which the people unequivocally support. The commitment with regard to extending medical cards to those with a terminal illness is on page 46 . I know Mr. Wall very well. I am a friend of his. The Taoiseach knows him well. He was at his wedding. This is not acceptable.

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