Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 13:

In page 3, before section 2, to insert the following new section:

"2.—The Minister shall, within 1 month of the commencement of this Act, lay before each House of the Oireachtas, a report on the progress of the National Carers Strategy.".

I seek this amendment because of the disregard of the Government for carers and because the promises of the Towards 2016 agreement will not be brought before the House by the end of the year. Yesterday we were told we would have the proposed report by the summer. The summer lasts a long time. Will we get it in early or late summer or can the Minister of State give me a specific date?

We spoke in great detail on this issue on Second Stage and I acknowledge the comprehensive answer provided. Carers are wonderful people who save the State €2.1 billion by keeping their elderly and disabled relatives out of nursing homes and hospitals. I urge the Minister, therefore, to lay a report on the national carers' strategy before the House.