Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

-----and they will have to, as Senator Wilson did, provide a quorum not for the purpose raised by Senator Craughwell but to have the business of the day commence. The point being made by people on this side of the House is that a quorum should not be just the responsibility of Government, although it is. We are in a minority situation and therefore there is an obligation on all sides of the House to ensure that the sitting of the day commences. Senator Craughwell being all for new politics will embrace that.

I commend Senators Ruane and Nash on their remarks this morning around protecting and upholding the human rights of our most vulnerable people. This is a matter that requires urgent attention and ongoing inspection. I understand the Health Information and Quality Authority, HIQA, carries out regular inspections of our nursing homes. The point the Senators made is very important. I am happy to engage with them on the provision of a series of debates on the issue.

Senator Conway-Walsh raised the issue of Spinraza. I do not have information to hand in regard to the matter she raised this morning on the Order of Business. Senators Conway-Walsh and Hopkins raised the audiology issues in the west. It is unacceptable that there has been a breakdown in supports to young children and their families. As Senator Hopkins rightly said there is need for cross-departmental engagement by the Departments of Education and Skills, Employment Affairs and Social Protection and Health, and the HSE in terms of accountability and to address the pathway to services for the young people and families who have been failed, notwithstanding that the HSE has apologised. Senator Hopkins made a very telling contribution around the audiologist, whether that person remains in the employment of the HSE and, if so, in what area this person is employed.