Mr. Sean Egan:

I mentioned earlier that we have a standard approach to inspection in healthcare facilities which samples a number of standards and looks at a number of specific thematic areas. One of those areas is infection prevention and control. It is always a key part of our assessment. We have a long history of inspecting in this area in the healthcare setting. In fact, we have specific standards around infection prevention and control, both in acute and community settings, that were developed by HIQA and mandated by the Minister. They would be part of our consideration as part of the approach to inspection. That approach to inspection looks at the various elements of infection prevention and control, both in and of itself and also as a wider proxy in terms of safety and governance within the organisation. We look at governance and the intervention measures that are put in place. We look at evidence-based care as well. We also assess data to inform our evaluation of the service in terms of how it is performing relative to its peers around infection rates and so on. It is one of the areas within Ireland that is actually more developed and allows us to benchmark services in terms of infection prevention and control.

Specifically on the Cathaoirleach's question about materials, we try to ensure that evidence-based practice is implemented. That is something we would seek to ensure is in place. The built environment is something we would look at. The physical environment is a key part not only of safety but also dignity for patients, which is included within our inspection. Infection control is a critical safety measure within organisations and I would think it will always be part of our assessment approach going forward.