Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I did not interfere with the Senator. The IMO would not enter into negotiations because it was awaiting the outcome of High Court proceedings with the Competition Authority. The proceedings have been resolved and there are ongoing discussions with the Department. I do not like to be accused of voting for a gagging clause. I did not vote for such a clause. The draft contract has not been signed off on and is the subject of discussions between the IMO and the Department of Health. It is important to provide that clarification. Those who voted against the amendment did not vote for a gagging clause. It is important to make that point. I respect those who table amendments and the decision taken.

Today, the Joint Committee on Health and Children published its report on a national strategy for palliative care, end of life care and bereavement. It is an important report. Some 32 people contributed to it and over 42 organisations made written submissions. It is important that it not be left on the shelf but acted on. The issue that needs to be addressed is the waiting time for those who are in hospital and in need of palliative or nursing home care in order that they are not left for a prolonged period as currently occurs. The delay in transferring patients from hospital care to nursing home care costs approximately €196 million per annum. That issue needs to be dealt with. What is set out in the report would be cost neutral and we need to ensure the recommendations made in the report are implemented at an early date.. I thank the Chairman, committee members and, in particular, Senator Jillian van Turnhout for their contributions in the preparation of the report.