Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I endorse my colleagues' demands for a debate on care of the elderly. Do we cherish our people? Last Thursday I attended the Cork carers' forum, at which concern was expressed about the comments of the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Ó Cuív, on pensions and home help hours. I agree with Senator Callely that a separate debate is needed on home help and the role of carers in society. This is why I propose to raise a matter on the Adjournment of the House.

When a Minister is appointed by the Taoiseach, he or she receives a seal of office from the President. If it is correct to say that such a seal means he or she has authority and responsibility for the Department assigned to him or her, I ask Members opposite to desist from blaming the HSE. The officials of the HSE, ordinary men and women, are implementing Government policy-----