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

It is a scandal to God what has gone on. First, there was a bicycle shed at €336,000, then a hut for €1.42 million, and now pouches for €9 million while there is a shortage of SNAs and teachers in our schools. A total of €4-€5 million is spent on migration funding. Any amount of millions can be spent on climate action and it still will not change the weather. People going to work, including those operating commercial vehicles, taxis and coaches, are suffering with extra carbon tax and all the other taxes.

At the same time, there is no respite for families with children or family members with a disability. There is no funding for carers and people like the children who are suffering with scoliosis and are still waiting. We still do not have half enough GPs. It is a fright to God that people are waiting in emergency departments on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights waiting to see a consultant. Unless a person is at death’s door, many of them are not working during the weekend. I know those who are waiting and I know too well those who have waited.

Then we are expected to answer to the people. There is no answer inside in this Chamber as to what is going on. This happened under their noses just outside the door of this building. What is happening around the country? How much money is being wasted? There is an old saying that wilful waste makes woeful want. The time could be fast coming when we will need the money we have squandered and the people are depending on us to manage. The Government has totally and absolutely disregarded its own people. It is a disgrace what is happening.

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