Ms Mary Dunnion:

I am not able to give that information to the Deputy as we changed the structure of HIQA. In the latter part of 2015, HIQA had one inspection team covering both the disability and older persons spheres. We divided this because we wanted to ensure, in line with some of Deputy Colm Burke's queries, we had the right qualified staff for the services being provided.

Since 2015, 80% of all nursing homes are inspected every year. We do not have to inspect every year and it is not a requirement set in legislation but we must renew the registration of a nursing home every three years. We have a very heavy defined schedule of inspection but it is really important we maintain oversight of each nursing home through the various sources of information we have. Where there is risk, there has never been a case where we have not responded with an unannounced inspection.