Callely defends record on care of elderly

Minister of State Ivor Callely last night staunchly defended his former role as minister with responsibility for the elderly.

He rejected as a "cheap trick" claims by Fine Gael deputies Fergus O'Dowd and Liam Twomey that when the case of a nursing home resident was brought to his attention, he had "probably whispered it in somebody's ear and left it at that".

"That is an untruth," Mr Callely insisted angrily.

He also stressed that he had a "proven track record of achievements in the Department of Health" and contributed to "improving the lives of thousands of older people". He rejected claims by Mr O'Dowd that he had failed to change the nursing homes regime when he had that responsibility.

Mr Callely said the case the Opposition deputies raised did not relate to Leas Cross.