Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his address. I do not think there is anybody here who doubts his sincerity, commitment, call to action and, ultimately, what will be his delivery. I thank Senators Clonan, Boylan and Craughwell, my colleagues, Senators Doherty, Kyne, Currie and Dolan, for their input, and indeed Senator Clifford-Lee.

I was thinking that I tend not to share my personal story too much. However, Senator Clifford-Lee mentioned it and she is a dear friend and colleague, somebody I am very fond of.In 1974, when I was born with congenital cataracts, my dad had no faith in the Irish system and decided to bring me to London. He did not have the price of it but he got me to London for the surgery I needed. Had I not got that surgery back then, I would not have the limited eyesight I have today. Fast-forwarding to 2023, would you believe in the system we have today? I actually would. I believe our healthcare professionals, particularly in the area of ophthalmology, are incredible. What we have delivered as a country is incredible but there are shortcomings. What we have been discussing for the past hour is a serious shortcoming. I think of the families of those little children. I apologise for the absence of my usual free-flowing articulacy earlier on. It was because I was thinking back to when I was born in 1974 and the challenges my parents faced. We need to do better and we can do better.

The review the Minister has commissioned is a watershed moment and will make a difference. He will preside over that difference and we will make this country a better place. We will hold people accountable. I really do believe things will ultimately improve and the families who have questions that need answers will get those answers. Ultimately, the process will be different and will make a difference and we will not be in this situation in future. We will not be here in the Seanad discussing such a national scandal. I sincerely hope the Minister's belief and mine will be reflected in a result.

I commend the motion to the House. It was a very important debate and engagement. We have to ask hard questions of the Minister and he has to ask hard questions of the HSE, but ultimately, we are all here for the one reason, which is to make a difference and to ensure something like this will never happen again in our country's future.