Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

I wish you well, a Chathaoirligh, in your retirement. You had the absolute respect of every Member during the past five years and did a tremendous job. As Leas-Chathaoirleach, it was a privilege to work with you during that time.

I welcome Senator Cassidy and the new Members to the House and congratulate those who were elected to the Dáil.

I ask the Leader for a debate on the role of the community welfare officer. I understand there is to be a change whereby the community welfare officer may be taken into the Department of Social and Family Affairs. That would be a retrograde step as the officer plays a very important role in the community. If taken into the Department of Social and Family Affairs, he or she would become a civil servant, in which case he or she would not be able to act in the same way as heretofore. In the event that it is not possible to have a debate on this issue, will the Leader raise it with either the Minister for Social and Family Affairs or the Minister for Health and Children? This is an important issue which needs to be debated and on which clarification needs to be provided. The role of the community welfare officer should remain as at present.