Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

The Senator had an opportunity to speak on this debate. I am well aware of conditions in these units and acknowledged a few moments ago that we must devise appropriate solutions. Examining the charging structure, to which Senator Moylan referred, is an option to which I am open.

We should be clear on one aspect — the medical and nursing professions are not prepared to stigmatise patients because they are inebriated. They are caring professions and must care on an equal basis for patients who arrive for treatment. One speech at an Ard-Fheis producing a magic carpet will not change this position. We must all work with this position. We all know the reality. I made it clear that we must review and address the problem.

There is a 75% discharge rate into the community. Some patients cannot obtain treatment in the accident and emergency units.