I understand the Tánaiste has just responded that he does not want to comment about an individual leaving his position. Chronic pain is a shocking thought for anybody but it is particularly acute for children. We had one paediatric pain consultant in the State who has now stepped down from his post. Quite frankly, it is not an acceptable comment to simply say that we will advertise the post.

Hear, hear.

There are 75 children a year using the service. One can imagine their attitude and concerns facing into Christmas. I ask him to reflect further on this, as we need to have a response for those families this side of Christmas. Will he speak with the Minister for Health to ensure that some provision, comfort and succour is given to those families, who are facing the prospect of an indeterminate future without a facility that has given relief to their children in recent times?

I will speak to the Minister. The reason I responded in that way to Deputy Calleary is because I only learned about this issue this morning on my way in. In the case of something like this, it is important that one gives an informed response. If one does not have the information, it is difficult to do that.

Clearly, where families have children under the care of an individual who is stepping down, there will be a need for a proper transition plan for them to ensure, in particular in the area of pain management, that they are getting appropriate and professional care. I will speak to the Minister for Health and ask him to come back to both Deputies who have raised this question.