Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I have huge concerns around the quality standards. There have been some terrible complaints from very vulnerable people in some privately-run emergency accommodation. It is not that we do not have a fit-for-purpose inspection regime; it is that there is no inspection regime in place at the moment. It is critical that HIQA is appointed to do that. The Department did not give any view on recommendation 5 in its opening statement. I ask for a written response from the Department as regards whether HIQA should be appointed to such a role. Ms Timmons said she would get back to Deputy Ó Broin about whether that is being considered but I would like a detailed response on the Department's view. Does the Department think it is a good idea? If not, why not? It would be helpful to understand that. I certainly think that is what needs to be done and that many of these issues around quality and standards would be sorted out if HIQA were appointed to do the inspections.