Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am very much aware of the views of the Ombudsman. Deputy Canney has reminded me of those views again. I fully accept that where we are is not acceptable to many people who rely on a scheme like this while dealing with great difficulty in their own lives due to their health. That said, it is a complex and sensitive matter. I will pursue two things. First, I will support the work that is under way to put a new board in place. Second, I will support my officials to conclude the work to identify how the scheme can be improved.

I am aware of the really important issues of equity and the need for the scheme to be very sensitive given the needs it is responding to. We are trying to get it right. I am equally aware of the duties I have to ensure that whatever scheme is brought forward is affordable and we are able to sustain it, and to explain the role it plays in meeting the health and mobility needs of our citizens while acknowledging there are so many other demands and pressures that the taxpayer and the Exchequer must respond to.

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