Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

I will be brief because it has been a long debate. I regret the fact that this is neither a rights nor a resource-based Bill, there is no proofing and it is vague on financial commitments. It is deeply regrettable that parents will still be forced to take court actions and might even find that more difficult because of the Bill.

There have been considerable advances made in this area over the years. I am proud to come from Carlow, where St. Dympna's Psychiatric Hospital did much good work in its time. Thankfully, much has happened in a short period. There are now groups like Delta in Carlow and St. Laserian's special school, which has done great work in the area. That was exemplified by Ms Ann Hickey, who represented Delta at the Special Olympics. She joined Mr. Patrick Kielty on the stage at the launch of the Special Olympics and made a speech — an experience which most people would find terrifying. Everyone in Carlow is proud that she was able to do so. It showed the significant advances made in the area of disabilities in a short space of time.

People are finding it difficult to gain access to services. I am involved with one group, the Carlow Autism Group, which has spent nearly four years trying to get a school in the town but we are no nearer getting one. Everything has been put in the group's way. It is incredible in this day and age that this is still happening. Much work still needs to be done. For example, the saga surrounding Ionad Folláin in Myshall has been ongoing for years. Finally we are getting approval for an adult autism centre.

This Bill is a missed opportunity and I look forward to voting against it. It is regrettable that the Government has not listened to the views of the Opposition and the many groups involved in the area of disabilities.