John Moloney (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I understand Senator McFadden is seriously concerned. I have met Ms Maura Morgan, Mr. Joe Moran and Mr. Donal Fitzsimons. I do not want to give the Senator an answer for the sake of it. I accept fully this issue must be dealt with. The Department and the HSE must work out how we can increase staffing levels. This morning I gave the Department certain figures and have asked whether we need that level of staffing.

I have given a commitment to deal with this issue. The same situation applies in my home county and I want it dealt with as quickly as possible. My ambition is to close the Alvernia unit for the intellectually disabled attached to St. Fintan's hospital in Portlaoise, not tomorrow but yesterday, and the people accommodated in the community. I have made that commitment which is an essential part of what A Vision for Change is all about. I see little point in delaying this while at the same time telling the Senator I am all for A Vision for Change.