Alex White (Dublin South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

It is very disappointing that any services have to be reduced. The financial background is the basis on which services have been reduced, unfortunately, not just in this very important area but across the board. I agree with Senator O'Donovan's general sentiment and also with his point that the age profile has to be taken into account. There is a continuing need in that regard. If greater provision could be made or could have been made it would have been done. We are simply operating under the constraints that are well known. I regard it as a priority area and the Senator has a right to raise it in the House and to keep up the pressure for the reasons Senator O'Donovan and Senator Kelly have adverted to. In respect of the precise figures given to Senator Kelly during the week, I cannot comment in detail, other than to say that the information I have given to the House this evening is correct. As to whether individuals should have a change in their position I repeat that these decisions are made on the basis of the assessment of individual needs and that is how it is approached.