Mary White (Fianna Fail)

A significant job must be done. Senator O'Toole referred to the inspectorate, but the matter is not simple. I reflected on what he said. I worked in the public sector of the building industry. Inspections were carried out, but people became so sociable with the other side that they closed their eyes, as it were. A distance must be kept between the inspectors and the owners.

The Minister of State's speech was excellent, especially his last paragraph, but it was ridiculous of Senator Browne to attack him. On behalf of the Department, the Minister of State said:

Everything must be done to avoid a situation such as arose in Leas Cross ever arising again. This Government is committed to developing appropriate structures to ensure that our older citizens receive the best possible care in the most appropriate settings, in the future.

I wish the Minister of State the best of luck in his important portfolio. The issues outlined in my documents, including A New Approach to Child Care, are close to my heart as a Senator.