John Kelly (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I was in my office looking at the monitor and watching Senator Darragh O'Brien's performance on home help hours. He is trying to raise doubt about the announcement made by the Minister for Health. He seems to be unconvinced the statement by the Minister for Health reflects the reality. I wish to clarify the position on the home help hours. On Thursday last during a meeting of the Committee on Health and Children, the Minister for Health, Deputy James Reilly announced that the home help hours and the home care packages will be restored with effect from 1 January 2013 to the levels they were at on 1 January 2012. If Members have any doubt, they can get a transcript of the proceedings from the committee. If the Cathaoirleach insists, I will ask the Leader if he can provide that information to the Senators who are still unconvinced about the home care packages and home help hours.