John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

It is clear that some people have to be catered for in nursing homes. Senator Ormonde's suggestion does not bear any resemblance to reality nor did many of her other suggestions.

Senator Browne raised an important issue about whether homes should be classified as hospitals or commercial enterprises. That should be addressed. The Government should have acted three years ago when the Human Rights Commission issued its report and uncovered some of what we saw on our television screens on Monday night. If I am accused of making a political football out of it, so be itbut it is my job as an Opposition spokesperson to highlight these issues inside and outside the House. The Government was negligent in not acting on the commission's report.