Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

-----and is very competent and capable. I am happy for him to come to the House to discuss a variety of transport issues as Senator Reilly asked.

Senator Ardagh raised the issue of respite care and struck a very important note with which I completely agree. In the forthcoming budget it is absolutely important that the emerging fruits of the economy are spent on people in a way that has tangible benefits and, in particular, for carers, whether family members or paid carers, and also those who require respite care, as mentioned by the Senator. There is an absolute need for further investment in that area. I know from discussions with the Minister for Health, Deputy Harris, that the issue of older people is being considered in the context of the budget because it is important, as Senator Murnane-O'Connor rightly said, that we acknowledge the contribution that senior citizens have made to society and the community. All Members know people in respite care or in need of home care and who have needs that are not currently being met. We must ensure that the moneys we have in an economy that is now growing is spent wisely and prudently on people. The point that is being made and should be made is that now, if one looks at what the Government has done in terms of budgets in recent years, is that the Oireachtas, without the support of the Seanad because Members of the Opposition did not support Senators being included on the Committee on the Future of Healthcare, has a long-term vision for health and investment in it. It is important to note that all ESRI reports reference the demand on our health service. The former Minister for Health, Senator Reilly, was very clear in his approach about people being treated at home, living longer at home in their own environment and it is important that we address that. It is equally important that strategies and plans are put in place in terms of the carer and respite care aspects of health care. Senator Devine referenced disability and it is also important that we spend money in that area.

Senator Boyhan raised the issue of the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dún Laoghaire, as has Senator Hopkins in the past. I would be happy for the Minister to come to the House to address that issue. I cannot give Senator Boyhan an answer on the issue of beds in that hospital but the point he raises regarding rehabilitation and a national rehabilitation plan needs to be actively pursued.

I am not sure if Senator Conway-Walsh wants me to bring the Minister of State at the Department of Finance, Deputy O'Donovan, back to the House. I would be happy to do so.