Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

I agree with the Minister that it is very difficult. As the old saying goes, exceptions make bad laws. The central point is that whatever resources are available for the elderly should be devolved to that care area and utilised to the optimum effect and that those who benefit from the resources should be the right people to do so. I have worked in this area and I stand over that.

There are many care models for the elderly. If they have not already been examined it would be useful if the Department of Health and Children or indeed the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and Children, of which Senators Henry, Browne and I are members, took an in-depth look at what is available. Several models of care, not just the geriatric hospital or the welfare home can provide for the elderly. We also have community care and retirement villages available. Senator Browne made a valid point when he referred to old people who were devolved from institutions into the community and are now living in old persons' dwellings. Undoubtedly, care in the community is a better service. When one thinks of planning for the future in the psychiatric services, community care is a better service, although it is far more expensive.

We should pursue the best model. I support the Minister's views.