Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

With respect to the Minister of State, Deputy Haughey, he is only delivering the speech on behalf of the Minister, Deputy Harney. Much of the speech is typical HSE gobbledegook. The health representatives are even contradicting themselves. Pat Healy is saying one thing while Professor Drumm or the Minister is saying another. It is no wonder that the health system is as it is when two or three versions of events are being circulated.

There is no question that beds will be lost in Waterford. They are high-dependency beds for elderly people who need attention and care. Some of the patients in St. Patrick's will now be turfed into nursing homes where they will not receive the same care and attention.

I do not accept the reply; it is just not good enough that such rubbish is being spoken in the House. I am not in any way casting aspersions on the Minister of State, Deputy Haughey, but I am angry over the closure of the ward. Many people in Waterford are very angry because their parents and relations were treated so well in the hospital. To have this type of tripe being put to us at this stage is not good enough.