Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)

As Minister with overall responsibility for public expenditure and reform, does the Minister see a role for himself in this? This is happening across Departments. I will provide another example, namely, homeless emergency accommodation by private providers. Some are making huge profits and in some instances are providing emergency accommodation where there are bloodstains on the sheets and where people who stay there report being assaulted or robbed by staff who are not properly trained. We see it in social care and home care for elderly people. It has been outsourced and privatised. People are paid poorly and not getting proper conditions. That then affects the older person or person getting the service. It is not just an industrial relations issue, although that is important. There has been in recent years more and more outsourcing of key services that should be provided directly with good value for money and good quality. This is happening across multiple Departments. Is there anything the Minister can do?

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