Joe McHugh (Fine Gael)

The facts are that on the one hand, the State gives a pensioner money and on the other hand, if an elderly pensioner breaks his or her leg, the State takes the money from him or her after 30 days. For example, a social welfare recipient is given money by the State. However, if that person has to stay in hospital to receive treatment for a period of 30 days, the State does not take back the money. The only group being discriminated against are the elderly. It is a serious and sensitive issue which must be addressed. I appreciate the Minister is in a corner but I want a commitment that the measure will be reviewed.

The only reason we have reached this impasse is because the Bill is going through so quickly. The issue should have been raised in the Dáil but it was not because of the speed of the Bill's passage. This is grand prix speed. To put through a Bill in two days is not acceptable. I need a commitment from the Minister of State.