Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is important that the Minister would come to the House and debate the issues with us even though, as colleagues are aware, the Government is responsible to Dáil Éireann under Article 28 of the Constitution. I am sure, however, that he will be willing to come here and address these matters. We should allow the commission of investigation to do its work. I reject totally Senator Byrne's assertion that it is being established for political purposes. When the matter comes before the House, we will have ample time to debate it.

I note Senator Denis Landy's points in regard to extra charges for elderly people in nursing homes. I will bring that matter to the Minister's attention.

Senator Feargal Quinn referred to the importance of reducing food waste and called for a further debate on the issue, following the debate we have already had. I note his points regarding defibrillators.

Senator John Kelly called for a commission of inquiry into the death of Fr. Niall Molloy, an issue which has been raised on numerous occasions in the House. I am sure the Minister is aware of the matter.

As I have stated, the questions Senator David Cullinane and others raised are the reason the commission of investigation has been established. Senator Paul Coghlan advised that we hasten slowly in these matters and summed up the various actions the Government has taken.

I could not agree more with Senator Paschal Mooney's comments regarding research into motor neurone disease. I will bring his points to the Minister.

I note the points made by Senator Moran on World Autism Day. If she raises the matter with the Oireachtas Commission, perhaps it could arrange what she requires.

I note the matters raised by Senator Healy Eames with regard to 700 jobs at Elverys Sports.

Senator Noone raised the issue of ambulance response times, which are certainly a cause of concern. I hope the Minister for Health will come to the House to address the matter. The Senator also referred to cardiology services in the south east, the only region in which cardiology services are not provided 24 hours per day.