John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I compliment Senator Minihan on his contribution which was in marked contrast to the other contributions from that side of the House. I did not come in here to make political capital out of this scandal but given the number of footballs kicked about here this evening, one would think the debate was being held on a soccer pitch rather than in the Seanad. I was disappointed that in her contribution Senator Ormonde could not, for political reasons, pay tribute to Deputy O'Dowd who was responsible for the programme, aired on Monday night, which has unveiled a litany of abuse. It was he who conducted most of the research and was credited as having done so and he deserves all our praise. I also salute all those involved in the programme.

Senator Feeney's closing remarks were disappointing. Deputy O'Dowd has been a Member of the other House for the past three years and was a Member of this House for five years. During those eight years he has campaigned on this issue and has done more as an Opposition Member for people in nursing homes than have all the Government Deputies and Senators in a period of unprecedented economic opportunity.

I join with colleagues who have expressed the view that an independent inspector be introduced for public and private nursing homes. Senator Norris was correct in emphasising that public facilities should also be inspected and must not be excluded, although it should be pointed out that there are many involved in the nursing home structure who own and operate fine premises on which the country depends and we should not tar everyone with the same brush. However, following on from the scenes on our television screens on Monday night it is clear that urgent action in this area is needed. An appropriate inspectorate should be established and I urge the Government to ensure that the necessary legislation is introduced as soon as possible and is not allowed drag on over the next few months.

I thank the Government side of the House for providing the opportunity to hold this debate. Given that the demographic profile of the country is ageing, there is a need for the establishment of more nursing homes. For that reason I support many of the initiatives introduced by the Government such as tax incentives for those who wish to build them. It is clear there is a need for extra places, especially in view of the exorbitant rates charged by the home featured in the television programme screened on Monday night and in other homes throughout the country.

I cannot share Senator Ormonde's view on nursing homes. There are some people who, through no fault of their own or their families, have to be catered for in them. I would like to think that the day will not come when I have to go to a nursing home but who can tell the future.