Ms Michele Clarke:

HIQA operates under the Health Act 2007. The Act included provisions dealing with registered designated centres, that is, residential centres for children, older people and for those with disability. Other powers of HIQA under the Health Act 2007 include powers relating to monitoring and inspecting standards in health and social care. These are the powers HIQA currently has in respect of inspecting foster care and child protection services. HIQA is seeking additional powers in respect of foster care. HIQA has written to the Minister in this regard and this will be considered. However, it could have implications for the entire Health Act 2007 in terms of all services in the community. That is to be considered.