Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I share in the thanks that have been extended to the Cathaoirleach, the Leas-Chathaoirleach, Mr. Martin Groves, Clerk of the Seanad, Ms Bridget Doody, the deputy clerk, and the entire parliamentary community for the work they do on our behalf. As others have said, it is a mammoth task and is getting more difficult and challenging all the time. We appreciate that and hope people get a break over the summer.

When we come back in September, the likelihood is that it will be for a short period. I would like a specific debate on the role of carers. A lot of background work is taking place within the Government to adopt a new approach to the carers and the work they do. I look forward to that because we have an opportunity now, as the budget cycle begins, to do something significant to support the thousands of carers who are caring for the elderly, people with disabilities, people with special needs and children. A scheduled debate would be useful.

Mr. Bernard Gloster confirmed on the radio yesterday that the report of Mr. Justice Frank Clarke into the tragic death of Ms Aoife Johnston is with him. I believe it will include recommendations to improve things. I also understand from statements that were made last April and May that the terms of reference that are going to be given to HIQA to carry out its short and sharp review of emergency facilities in the mid-west were contingent on this report.We are coming to the end of this Oireachtas cycle. This HIQA report was promised last May. I want a timeline for when we are going to have this report. Following on from that, we need a debate on that report. Over the summer period the Leader could perhaps engage with the Minister for Health, Deputy Donnelly, to clarify the timeline so that we can have that debate and hopefully improve emergency services in the Midwest.