Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will not need six minutes. To be quite honest, I am glad that Senator Craughwell was here to take the second slot this afternoon.

I thank Senator Clonan for tabling this motion. How we treat our children, our elderly and our disabled people is a reflection on our country. We have failed in how we look after those three cohorts of people, especially those with disabilities. The Indecon report stated that they would require an increase in the budget of €27.30, yet yesterday €12 was allocated. It is simply not enough. As far as I am concerned, people have to walk in the shoes of someone or of a family member to know what it is like to have disabilities. Senator Clonan has been an advocate since he entered the door of the House. I have been representing parents of children with disabilities for most of my political life, as I am sure everyone in these Houses has. Governments are slowly kicked into action, only when a Prime Timespecial airs. Parents have to go on TV to get action taken. That is wrong. It is an abuse. They should not have to do that. I commend Senator Clonan on being the voice of disability groups since he entered this Chamber. I support this motion and every motion he will bring forward on the disability sector as long as he is in these Houses.