Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator. I take on board everything she has said. I would welcome working with her and assisting the family because this is an extreme case. When a person has to access residential care, that is extreme at any time. It is ten times more extreme when a person has to leave their jurisdiction in order to access care. It is my prerogative and that of the Government to ensure we provide residential care as close to home as possible so that people can continue their relationships. That is our priority.

While I understand the extremities of the case, it is important that the young man concerned is supported as close to home as possible. Consultation and communication needs to happen. Why would a mum not want to buy her son a TV or be able to have regular access to him? Why would a mum not want to see her son participate in sport? That is what we want for all of our children. I look forward to working with the Senator on this issue.