Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome HIQA here today and I thank the authority for its reports. HIQA has come to occupy a prominent place in public awareness of the hospital system in the context of hygiene and safety. At the time of HIQA's establishment there was enormous public concern about the spread of the MRSA superbug which seemed to be spiralling out of control in our hospital system. It is worth emphasising that aside from the additional costs associated with combating infections, people's peace of mind is very important when they are utilising our health care facilities.

It is positive that the rate of infection has decreased from 592 in 2006 to 242 in 2012, a 57% reduction. Will HIQA outline its plans to reduce the number of infections even further? Is it a realistic aspiration to reduce it below the European average over the coming years? Does HIQA believe that target will be realised?

I appreciate HIQA has a substantial workload. In the past month or so, it published reports on four community hospitals in my constituency - Youghal, Cobh, Midleton and Fermoy - and these varied in recommendations and outcomes. We have seen many HIQA evaluations indicating many hospitals are not safe. What are the consequences for hospitals identified as failing to comply with standards and how does HIQA intend to ensure they comply?

In regard to future developments, the corporate plan is transparent and encouraging. I hope this continues. I note HIQA will take on additional functions and will move towards the development and implementation of a licensing system for health care facilities. Will it provide us with further detail on the proposed system? Is it envisaged that direct provision accommodation centres will at some point fall within the remit of HIQA? I have raised concerns about these centres on a number of occasions as they are not subject to independent oversight by HIQA, the ombudsman or the new child and family agency. Does HIQA foresee a role for itself in that area?