Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am sure I can arrange a debate with the Minister on the closure of barracks and so on.

Senator Conway referred to the visit of Hillary Clinton, which everyone welcomes. The Clintons have been good friends to Ireland and they will continue to be.

Senator Colm Burke raised an issue he mentioned a few months ago about the number of people failing to turn up for outpatient appointments. That position in this regard should be improved to provide for more efficiency in the system. There are 17,000 appointments in one hospital, 18,000 in Waterford Regional Hospital and so on. If these people are preventing others on the waiting lists from securing an appointment, it should be highlighted because it is an important issue.

Senator White commented on the budget provision relating to prescription charges. The monthly cap will be ¤19.50 for an individual or family. She also mentioned the Minister of State with responsibility for older people. Perhaps the Senator might succeed her.