Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Mac Lochlainn raised an important point regarding funding for home care packages and other types of health provision. There has been a significant increase in investment in a variety of different measures, including in the areas of disability, home care packages, the elderly and disability services. However, I agree that there needs to be a better channelling of funding so that services are delivered to the patient in a timely manner. There is a bureaucratic stranglehold that must be loosened. To my knowledge, the recruitment embargo to which the Senator referred has been lifted. Members have spoken in the House this week about interviews that are taking place for posts in different sections of the health service. Having said that, we do need to address the bureaucratic issues and ensure moneys are freed up. I will convey the Senator's concerns to the Minister.

Senator Ó Ríordáin referred to the report on school absenteeism that was published last week. I agree with his points completely and acknowledge the school students who have joined us in the Gallery this morning. We have an obligation and duty to tackle the issue of absenteeism, which can be achieved through early intervention. I am happy to invite the Minister to the House to discuss this issue. The Senator also spoke about the rhetoric used by by-election candidates. That issue has been raised every day this week in the House. To reiterate my earlier comments, we must all be careful of the language we use and what we say, because the import of our words can be profound and significant. I do not agree with the comments made by certain by-election candidates in the past week on a variety of issues. As public representatives, it is important that we are seen to be leaders within our communities and in the Oireachtas. That is why the tone and tenor of what we say in this Chamber and outside of it, including on social media, is very important.

Senator Conway referred to the presentation on living in Dublin that was given by Marian O'Donnell earlier today. I join him in commending her on that briefing. There are challenges to be faced and met in Dublin and we must hold the National Transport Authority, NTA, to account in that regard.