Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I also voice my concerns about last night's television programme on the care of the elderly. We have been hearing stories every day from the Carers' Association and volunteers throughout the country about how they are crying out for help and resources to care for the elderly at home. It is proven that when the elderly are cared for at home, it is a much better environment for them and saves the State thousands, if not millions, of euro. We must be concerned, however, at how the HSE prioritises, manages and reports. It will not even report on how many children have died while in State care. That is outlandish, a shame and a disgrace. We saw on television last night that carers are seeing fundamental resources taken away from them.

It is essential we have a proper and focused debate on the issue. Let us have it out and talk frankly about the HSE, its inefficiency, mismanagement and lack of consistency. Whatever we say about the old health boards, at least they were accountable to public representatives at local level. The HSE is accountable to no one and the Government must take it to task before this gets out of control completely. We must empathise with those looking after the elderly and put supports and resources in place. We must have the debate as soon as possible.