Victor Boyhan (Independent)

I have just come from a commemoration service across the square with An Taoiseach - many other Members of the Oireachtas were there - dedicated to members of the Defence Forces, An Garda Síochána and others who have served the State. This morning, the focus was very much on the families of people in service who died in the past 12 months. There were several wreathes laid there and it is still going on. Maybe if people have time, they might go over to the memorial that is directly opposite our gates.

It is important we remember them. These are people who served the State with distinction, and when there was loss of life in service, their families suffered. While there is an initial period of time, the hurt and the loss is lingering for them. It is important that we remember them, particularly at this very moment when the Government, with the Defence Forces, are commemorating and giving thanks to the people who serve this country. I would like to think that, next year, we might look at how we as a parliament directly facing this obelisk can in some way be part of that commemoration in years to come because there is a natural synergy for that to happen.

I will finish with this, with the indulgence of the Cathaoirleach for one second. As we speak, there are meetings going on regarding the hunger strikers, namely, the people who lived in institutional care who were not given the supports and services they deserved. That is for another day and we have had a lot of debate but I wish those talks well. I hope all of us, in any party or none, in this Chamber will use our influence in the hope that there can be a resolution to two matters: a recognition, payment or contribution - let us not get hung up on the word or title - for the people who are out there and seeking on behalf of others some recognition of their labour in institutions and the toll it took on them; and an enhanced medical card. It is not unreasonable that they should be given an enhanced medical card as they face into elder age and several related health issues.

I hope these talks go well today because these people are not for turning. They have nothing more to lose. They have sacrificed too much. Let us be advocates for them. Let us support them. Let us use our influence in the houses of power, here in the Oireachtas, to get justice for them.