Mary Ann O'Brien (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is very comforting that the Minister of State thought the Senators made good points in respect of personal advocates and that he agrees that action should be taken. The fact is, however, those women who remain institutionalised require to be represented in respect of obtaining things to which they may be entitled - including, for example, mattresses or walking supports - but on which they must spend their own money. Until we can help those women, they will not be able to access all the wonderful health benefits, medicines, dental services, etc., provided for in the Bill before the House. If provision is not made in respect of the appointment of personal advocates, some of the Magdalen women will be placed in a nonsensical position. It is extremely important that we should put in place something concrete - I do not suggest that this should be legislative in nature - to ensure the relevant steps will be taken immediately after the Bill is enacted.