Order of Business - 27th June 2006

Order of Business – 27th June 2006
Mr. Norris: I also heard the Ta´ naiste on the
radio at lunchtime. I was surprised by what she
stated because if it were true — and it was challenged
in this House — that we spend as much as
those countries which received the best results, it
seems to highlight an inadequacy as we do not
get the same results.
Reference was made to the national treatment
purchase scheme, which is a clear indication the
system does not work. It is lamentable that we
must leave the country to purchase treatment for
our own citizens. That cannot be highlighted as a
positive aspect in support of the situation. I stated
repeatedly it was courageous of the Ta´ naiste to
take on this extremely difficult job. I agree with
Senator O’Toole and others who suggested we
need to know the facts. Perhaps an outside investigation
would be no harm.
I was told, and I assume it is true, that hospital
beds are clogged up because people on antibiotic
treatment take free leave to wander down to the
pub and soak up a few pints, rendering the treatment
inefficacious. If this is an urban legend, it is
time it was put to bed. However, if it is true it is
time action was taken.
I cannot help noticing that all over the city of
Dublin, particularly at weekends, ambulances
scoop up soporific citizens suffering from nothing
other than an over-indulgence in alcohol. We
must also examine that situation. Perhaps they
need treatment. I am not sure the use of ambulances,
which are emergency vehicles, is appropriate
in these circumstances.
3 o’clock
I wish to refer to a matter concerning another
Department, which caused great offence and will
cause great concern to all Members of this House.
I refer to the recent statement of an
eminent person, the Secretary
General of the Department of
Justice, Equality and Law Reform, that asylum
seekers and refugees constantly lie through their
teeth. That is strong and virulent language.
Mr. Dooley: It is true.
Mr. Norris: Of more concern, which might even
concern those such as my friend from Clare when
he disentangles himself from his county councillors,
is the Secretary General’s suggestion——
Mr. Dooley: I do not entangle myself with
anybody.
An Cathaoirleach: On the Order of Business.
Mr. Norris: This is on the Order of Business.
The Secretary General implied the Department
is routinely ambushed by the courts right up to
the point of deportation. The use of the word
“ambush” is very interesting and significant.
What are the courts for if not to uphold the rights
of persons in this country, including citizens? For
the Secretary General of the Department responsible
for justice to talk about the courts
ambushing his officials in their eager chase to
deport people should worry every decent
member of both Houses of the Oireachtas.