Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

I support Senator Hanafin's views on Irish jobs. It is an issue I already raised in the House. Senator Hanafin is correct on the importance of a debate on this issue at which the Minister will be present in the House. I concur with Senator Coffey's comments on the need for upskilling for those who may change employment in the current climate. I congratulate FÁS and Skillnets on the programmes they make available to assist those who wish to upskill.

I pay tribute to the tremendous army of frontline service providers in our health and social services, the doctors, nurses, emergency services such as fire, ambulance and garda personnel, carers, meals on wheels providers, home helps, public health nurses, occupational therapists and physiotherapists. The majority of these service providers go far beyond their call of duty and make an enormous contribution to individuals and communities.

I am concerned about the supports available to the HSE structure. In the past I expressed my concerns on this matter. I am deeply concerned about the continual changes in the structures in which these personnel work and to whom they report. The morale of these service providers should be taken into account. I understand the HSE is changing the structures we had in place in previous years back to the system in place prior to the HSE. We will now have regional structures similar to the old health board structure.

It is very important we receive appropriate briefing on this issue and that we are aware of the structures, supports and reporting procedures that are in place for the service personnel to whom I referred. I hope the Leader will obtain that information as quickly as possible.