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Seanad
‹ Order of Business

National Rehabilitation Hospital and vegetable production

Summary

Senator Boyhan welcomed progress on extending a consultant’s hours at the National Rehabilitation Hospital and urged support to open the remaining six beds. He then turned to falling vegetable production and asked for a debate on Irish horticulture, before also requesting printed copies of the Order of Business.

I will share some good news. Since 2007, I have been campaigning for the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dún Laoghaire.

Despite significant correspondence to the Minister we were making no progress. I am delighted to say that with like-minded Independents and party Members - I particularly acknowledge the work of some Fine Gael Senators and Deputies - we have been successful. Needless to say we have not heard this news from the Minister, but I contacted the hospital last week to confirm that a new consultant's hours have been extended. They are not very good at telling the good news, but the consultant who had ceased to be there has been re-engaged with additional hours and the seven beds have been reopened, which is marvellous news.

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David P.B. Norris Senator David Norris Independent

It is.

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It is even nicer to have found that out myself without notification from any Minister telling me about it.

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David P.B. Norris Senator David Norris Independent

The Minister is a good egg.

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I thank people who have been indulgent with me for many months. All that is at stake is the six remaining beds in that hospital. I appeal to Senators who have worked quietly behind the scenes to continue with their parties' health spokespersons to try to lobby to get the additional six beds open, as they should be.

I do not know if anybody listened to "Morning Ireland". Our vegetable production has dropped by 50% in the past three years-----

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David P.B. Norris Senator David Norris Independent

Absolutely.

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-----and we have below-cost selling of fresh produce. I appeal to people inside this House and beyond to demand high-quality Irish homegrown vegetables because when the suppliers are put under pressure it will happen. I ask the Leader for a debate in the new year with the Minister of State with responsibility for horticulture to discuss Irish vegetable production.

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David P.B. Norris Senator David Norris Independent

Hear, hear.

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I know that the Leader comes in here and reads the daily Order of Business and time slots. I know that is rough and is a moveable feast. I respect that and know it is not an easy job. Would it be possible to get ten or 20 hard copies of what he reads out left in the Chamber as it would help us? I do not want to ask the Leader to stand up and call the list out again. It is a busy station. It would be helpful for the smooth running of the House and our diaries. I am aware that there is such a document and that it is given to the Cathaoirleach and the Seanad Office. Ministers are aware of it and it is only right that we too should be aware of it. I want to be flexible and reasonable. I hope the Leader will agree to that very reasonable and simple request.

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