Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

It is relevant but the Cathaoirleach must remain at a distance from it. Only one or two Members on the Government side came in to the House today to support this legislation because most Members on that side do not support it. The rest will vote on it and disappear because this legislation will hurt. They have got the message on the ground and are hiding this afternoon. It is a pity. This legislation is penalising pensioners in Christmas week because it will mean that between 70% and 80% of their pensions will be taken from them. Does the Minister of State agree that as soon as the Bill is passed he will be deducting 80% of the pension from old age pensioners in long-stay institutions, in Christmas week? Is Senator Leyden, as a former member and chairperson of the Western Health Board satisfied to do that? I doubt he will visit all the long-term institutions in Christmas week, as he does before elections, and tell the people that this is what he and his Government have done.

In regard to the blame game, which many Members mentioned this morning, the then Minister said that he missed the important part of a meeting with the chief executive officers and did not know this matter was discussed at it. The chief executive officers decided there should be no change and they would continue their demands. Down through the years all the health boards demanded that people pay for their keep in those long-stay institutions but those affected could not afford it. I mentioned it recently on the Order of Business. Those are the people for whom I feel sorry. The new Minister for Health and Children, the Progressive Democrats and Fiannna Fáil in Government will demand 80% of the pensions of those affected. They will answer no questions but want people to pay up.