Dr. Kathleen MacLellan:

We have started and are already progressing moving that model forward. The level of investment and commitments made in the service plan for 2021 are already starting that significant shift. We expect the funding provided for significant re-ablement beds and home first would keep around 250 people in the home rather than their being transferred into long-term residential care. If we see that indicator coming through by the end of the year, it will give us a real sense of confidence moving into 2022 about what can be achieved and delivered safely within the system.

I am not in a position to put a percentage reduction on the number admitted to long-term residential care. That is something we need to look at internationally and see what a reasonable approach would be. The average length of stay can be up to three years in long-term residential care. We would really like to see that reduced. In some countries, that stay is around 18 months. I will ask Ms O'Neill to follow up on the HSE commitments and developments.