Ivor Callely (Independent)

I join others in extending our condolence and expressing sympathy to those affected by the tragic road accident in County Donegal and to all of the other families who have suffered as a result of road fatalities and injuries. I acknowledge the good work of the Road Safety Authority in reducing the number of deaths and injuries on the roads.

I appreciate the Leader's acknowledgment of my request to place on the clár a debate on carers. The Carers Association and the volunteer army of people involved in caring will greatly appreciate this opportunity. While I acknowledge we will be making statements, will the Leader consider arranging a follow-up debate on the issue when we return in the autumn to assess the progress made on the issues raised in the debate?

I join previous speakers who expressed concern about other matters relating to the HSE. I have been vocal in my concerns over a prolonged period regarding this unwieldy executive. I am unsure that I agree it is not fit for purpose, as I believe genuine, committed individuals are involved, but we established one single authority as service provider, having had 14 separate regional health boards which may have been a few too many. We should probably consider the provision of a service on regional basis based on European Parliament constituencies. I share the concerns expressed about the HSE and ask the Leader to put this and other health related issues on the agenda when we return.