Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

Without doubt the future financing of the long-term care of older people is a serious issue and one that will need much attention in the near future. The Mercer report on the future financing of long-term care in Ireland, commissioned by the Department of Social and Family Affairs, has been published and, following on from this, Professor Eamon O'Shea drew up a report on the nursing home subvention scheme. From a Government perspective, we consider these two reports very important as we plan ahead and decide how we should finance long-term care. Earlier this year, the Tánaiste, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, myself and officials from various Departments, including the Department of the Taoiseach, established a committee which will report back by the middle of this year. The Tánaiste indicated in the Dáil in recent days she would make recommendations on this matter later this year.

There will be no easy decisions. It will be a necessary but costly exercise. In the past we did not give this area the attention it deserves. This has been acknowledged and within Government circles there is a realisation of the importance of the issue and a willingness to deal with it speedily. We will come forward with suggestions before the year is out.

Senator Henry referred to the Health Service Executive taking over auditing functions. While it is a time of reform in the health services, this will not present us with any difficulty in regard to implementing Government policy. It is for the Government to decide on policy and then to ensure its implementation.

Senator Browne was critical of the Government, yet in excess of €287 million of additional funding was provided for health services for older people between 1997 and 2004. We have placed great importance on this sector and increased the funding for it each year. While the issue is important I do not see any merit in accepting the amendment and for that reason we will oppose it.