Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State and echo what Senator Maria Byrne said. In her absence I told the House that I chaired yesterday's Commencement Matter debate and she had raised issues relating to Limerick. I acknowledged that and I thanked her earlier in the debate. I also acknowledge the considerable work Senator Conway has done on it. The motion has cross-party support. This is about being united. Senator Buttimer summed it up very nicely when he talked about unity across the House on this important issue and I agree with that.

All the discussions I have had leading up to this motion have been about keeping focus on the issue. I again thank the Minister of State and acknowledge the great work of those involved in Patients Deserve Better. What a campaign they ran. If I were looking for someone to run a campaign for me, I would certainly take advice from them. Their infographics were excellent and their messages were clear. They were really well endorsed. They targeted Deputies and Senators very effectively. It is great that we have that public engagement and close contact with people outside the bubble of Leinster House.

We have 42 nurses at the moment and there is a shortfall of 100, based on the internationally recognised norm. As a pragmatist, I acknowledge that we will not get there overnight. Hopefully we will come close to it.

I wish to thank Deputy Colm Burke of Fine Gael who set up the event in the audiovisual room.