Stem-cell research

Madam, - I have watched with interest the posturing from Government back-benchers on the stem-cell debate

Madam, - I have watched with interest the posturing from Government back-benchers on the stem-cell debate. They seem to be getting hot and bothered on the issue.

I was wondering if they will ever get excited or annoyed with the reality that there are 1,382 persons with intellectual disabilities on residential waiting lists, 621 seeking day care places and 823 waiting for respite care. We also have 70,000 children living in poverty and 1,800 children seriously at risk.

Let us see them jump up and down on these issues. Then I will respect their integrity. - Yours, etc.,

FINIAN McGRATH, TD, (Independent, Dublin North Central), Dáil Éireann, Baile Átha Cliath 2.