Geraldine Feeney (Fianna Fail)

I am aware of people in my constituency who have been treated under this scheme and I know it is wonderful. Does Senator Bannon know what they say, that they cannot wait for the Opposition to come knocking on the door because they have no ideas? It was a Fianna Fáil led Government that brought in schemes like this to help the people. The Government has allocated €32 million to this scheme and that is to be welcomed.

Capital funding of €509 million will be provided to facilitate improvements in hospital infrastructure. I am sorry that Senator O'Meara is not present because Santa is coming early to her. Senator O'Meara is on a soapbox, morning, noon and night, talking about the closure and downgrading of hospitals.