Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

I though it was closer to four times the price already deemed on offer to GPs. Dr. Reilly had the Government over the barrel of a gun in that respect and by God he exploited that advantage. Fair play to him, he was being paid to exploit it. When the economy was in better shape this measure could be provided for people, but we are no longer in that situation. That is the reason this measure must be withdrawn from people who can afford it.

One aspect on which we all agree is that the manner in which this matter was dealt with was not ideal. Frequently when a change arises from a budget — many of the political controversies have arisen from issues emerging from the budget — proper consultation cannot take place because of the confidential nature of the budget. Perhaps we should examine that aspect and how we can get a sense of how other difficult political decisions that need to be taken will be played out before they are taken.

Matters were not helped by whipping up a hysteria of fear and anxiety in older people. That was highly irresponsible. Admittedly, the party opposite is entitled to play politics and that is fair enough. It is one thing, however, to do it with a group of people who are able to look after themselves——