Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am not suggesting that, a Chathaoirligh, but groups work better.

Respite care is important. As I only have a few minutes, I cannot cover all of the aspects in as much detail as I would like, but I wish to discuss respite care. The one thing that the State can do is give families dignity and quality of life. From personal experience and having spoken to many people, the families of people who happen to have intellectual disabilities of varying degrees treasure respite care because it gives them quality time and the opportunity to recharge their batteries and provide better care to their family members. The Government has improved respite care but, as my colleague stated, it is only a drop in the ocean. We must focus.

We could all discuss the various services that are provided in our counties. In my county of Clare, those who provide respite support include RehabCare and the Brothers of Charity. There are 42 steps in the process of teaching a service user how to make a cup of tea, for example, including health and safety, taking down the cup, putting in the tea bag and boiling the kettle. The 42 steps must be done properly so that the person can have the independence of making a cup of tea. This is a level of detail that money cannot buy. People provide this service.

Senator Byrne made a very good point. The Health Information and Quality Authority should not frighten the whatever out of people when it calls to carry out inspections. People should be made to feel like HIQA is a friend or advocate that supports and assists them. They should not be afraid and stressed out when HIQA arrives.

There is a major amount of work to be done. In six months' time, perhaps the Minister of State will update the House. Large bodies move slowly and incrementally, but with the right dedication and given the volunteers and staff in the services and the commitment in society, much can be achieved.