Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

While not losing sight of the banking issue I wish to follow Senator Fitzgerald who referred to the €1 billion that must be found for the health service. Professor Drumm is blaming the poor unfortunates who have lost their jobs who are now signing on the dole because they are now having to take up medical cards and the Health Service Executive is also at the loss of the 1% health levy. I find that extraordinary given the money that has been spent on spin doctors for Professor Drumm alone. What does the Department of Health and Children now do and how many people are employed in it?

I support Senator Fitzgerald's amendment to the Order of Business that the Minister, Deputy Harney, would come to the House. I am always amazed at how she is able to speak off the cuff but I would like honest, straight facts from her this time. What about the children who have not been able to avail of the cervical cancer vaccine? What about the children who are ill and who have been taken out of school because there is no money for special needs or to employ a care worker to assist them at school? I admire the noble comments about the great author but these are the vulnerable people and it is not the directors of the banks who have to pay the price, it is the most vulnerable in society. I urge the Leader to take serious note of what I say.