Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for attending the Seanad this afternoon to discuss this crucial and important issue. I welcome his statement that he will look at the fair deal charges for farms and small businesses. This is important, as Senator O’Reilly so eloquently put it, for young farmers and young people who want to inherit farms and businesses. It is difficult because many find it prohibitive and do not see any future because they feel they will lose their farm or business once their parent or loved one dies.

Many people contact my office every week who would love to keep their loved ones at home but are not in a position to do so because of medical conditions. I agree with my learned colleague on my right, Senator O’Reilly, that it would make so much financial sense to have a proper package in place to support these families. Many families are willing to do the work themselves, but they may not have the medical expertise. By putting the right people and supports in place, more people would opt to stay at home.

I have in mind one particular couple who are quite elderly. The gentleman's wife has been in a nursing home for a long number of years. He goes to the home every day to feed her breakfast, lunch and dinner. He never takes a holiday or goes out socially because he spends all the time he can with his wife in the nursing home. Many people are like this. If the right supports were put in place, that gentleman would be delighted to have his wife at home.The financial levels also have to be looked at. As noted by Senator Feighan, many people lost money or, while on paper they own property that is worth money, it is about the money that is available. This is very relevant to the Department's deliberations. The more people we can give access to care in the home with the right medical supports, the better, and it is something the Minister of State should consider. I know from his own personal interest how committed he is to making changes in this regard and also that he is willing to listen. I wish him luck for the future in his ministerial position.