Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I concur with Senator Cummins regarding Waterford Crystal, which was a flagship employer, even in difficult times, not only in Waterford but also regionally. I ask the Leader to take on board the Senator's comments and to invite the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to the House to discuss the issue of competitiveness in general. The issue affects Waterford Crystal today but it will be another company tomorrow. When flagships are going down like this, the warning signs must be heeded.

Many Members have commented on the issue of suicide and mental health services in general. I would like the Leader to invite the Minister of Health and Children to the House to discuss the lack of resources for psychiatric services and why psychiatric patients are being treated like third class citizens. I can highlight many cases in this regard. For example, where psychiatric patients in St. Otteran's Hospital, Waterford, do not receive occupational therapy, they are categorised as being in community care because they are long-stay patients. This is a disgraceful way to treat our most vulnerable patients.

People with intellectual disabilities are denied carer's allowance where they remain in the home. They are able bodied but they cannot care for themselves. Where applications have been made, they have been denied that right. I would also like the Minister for Health and Children to discuss this issue when she attends the House.