Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

That is the total number. As I stated, 1,100 places were provided in 2005, a further 3,100 places were provided last year and an additional 2,000 places will be provided this year.

Reference was made to the subvention scheme. A number of changes have been made in this regard. The relevant legislation was discussed in the House last week. Some people have been critical about the fact the scheme was administered in a different way in different parts of the country. The scheme is now standardised and guidelines have been issued to all local health offices. An announcement was made last December about the introduction of a new scheme which will come into effect from 1 January 2008.

Speakers referred to the inappropriate occupation of beds which has contributed to the current difficulty. People are reluctant to take family members home from hospital when they are not fit to be at home. The difficulty is compounded because people would not qualify for nursing home subventions. This has created serious financial difficulties for families. The new system that it is proposed to introduce next year will make a positive difference to the lives of many people, especially the elderly.

The reform programme is an enormous challenge that will require our ongoing commitment over the coming years but significant progress is being made by all concerned. To get the best out of any team requires a concentration on positive aspects. By doing so we will give confidence to the people who form part of the team. I accept there are problems in the health service but it is important we acknowledge the tremendous effort people working in the health service are making. We should not get in the habit of knocking things. It is important to express our appreciation to the people involved and show support for what they do and the service they provide. In concentrating on the difficulties that exist we only serve to undermine it. High morale is an important ingredient of team building. It is important for people to be more measured when they contribute to these debates.

It is also important for those involved in providing health services, to remember we are all part of one team, be they in the Department of Health and Children, the HSE or members of hospital staff such as doctors, nurses and consultants. We must work together if we are to provide the type of service people deserve. I acknowledge we have not yet arrived where we want to be in terms of improving the service but we must recognise the progress has been made across a number of fronts. We will continue to build on the progress that is evident in so many parts of the country.