On 19 December last, Liam Dennehy Quinn was deemed to be in urgent need of an operation for scoliosis. He has been living in University Hospital Kerry for the past 23 days. He is becoming more rigid and is potentially inoperable. He is at risk of needing two operations, rather than one, as well as longer stays in the hospital. His curve was 92° in February. His mother, Pamela, is worn out. His grandmother, Mary, is worn out. His life is in danger and his well-being is being jeopardised. An unconfirmed date is being spoken about. It was given by a nurse after constant questioning by Liam's dear mother. What do we have to say or do in this Chamber to take care of this lovely 13-year-old boy? He is languishing in a hospital room in University Hospital Kerry because he is not well enough to go home. The 24-hour home care he needs is not there for him. I am asking the Taoiseach about this for a second time. I am not asking; I am on bended knee, begging him to please ask the Minister for Health to directly intervene before it is too late for this young boy.

I thank the Deputy.

His family has gone through enough. I am not fighting with the Taoiseach or arguing with him. He knows I am not criticising him. I am just asking him to please act for this young little boy.

Thank you, Deputy. Your point is very well made.

He is 13 years of age and he needs a chance at life.

I thank Deputy Michael Healy-Rae for raising Liam’s situation on behalf of his mother, Pamela, and his grandmother, Mary. The Deputy raised this issue with me last week. He also wrote to me about it last week. I have been in contact with the Minister for Health in relation to the case. I will do so again this afternoon.

Thank you.