John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I am also aware of the Standing Orders of the House. The first matter, item 1, the Disability Bill, was raised by Senators Brian Hayes, O'Toole, Ryan and O'Meara. This matter is to be taken without debate. I suggest the resolution be passed. The Leader gave an undertaking that this would be debated and I give a similar undertaking. I understand it will take place in the next fortnight to three weeks. It is a serious matter and merits full debate. We could not do it justice in this afternoon's timescale. I urge that the Whips meet and agree a time for this debate. There are serious issues here. The Disability Bill was debated comprehensively and well in this House and this matter can be dealt with in the same way. It needs a considered approach and more time. That is why we should wait. I propose not to take the amendment but to put the resolution without debate.

The National Children's Hospital was raised by Senators Brian Hayes, Feeney, Norris, O'Meara, Maurice Hayes, Ross, Bannon and Henry while Senator Feighan raised related health service issues. I noted what the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. John Neill, said and he has every right to say it. I am aware of the contribution the Church of Ireland has made to medical services. It brings an important dimension to that debate. We discussed that here when we considered the transfer of the Adelaide Hospital and the necessity to maintain the ethos. Religious ethos is important, be it Church of Ireland, Muslim or Roman Catholic. The morality of the patient, not the ethos of the hospital, should determine outcomes.