Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank our colleagues for the detailed responses and their great support. Senator Swanick raised very important issues on the 104 weeks and the cohort of people who miss out as a result. As the Senator said, there are 68,000 people. It is something I am prepared to look at and something I will discuss with the Minister, Deputy Harris. I am open to the constructive suggestions that have come from the Seanad today.

The GP issue is a very important part of the debate because if we are doing GP cards we have to ensure the infrastructure is there and the GPs are there. I have met the NAGP on a number of occasions since I took over as Minister of State with responsibility for disability issues. It has been very supportive of me. I take the Senator's point about inclusive negotiations. It is the direction we should be going. That is something I will push within Government. I have met the NAGP on two occasions. I have spoken at one of its conferences. I also got massive support from it for the issues I want to drive in disability services. It is important that Senators know that as well. I believe all stakeholders should be around the table. That is my plan.