Mr. Michael Fitzgerald:

This question has been raised a couple of times. When this decision was made in June, we needed to give a timeframe for a couple of reasons. First, Owenacurra is a registered centre with the regulator. We have to be mindful of that so we can continue to be registered. Second, we were very mindful of what would unfold in terms of the standard of accommodation we have. Currently, we do not have a building that is fit for purpose. We also wanted to have some lead-in time to ensure assessments that had been undertaken, and any placements in place, would be secure.

The Deputy asked if 31 October is set in stone. We are still working towards 31 October though, of course, if it is the position that there are not suitable or available placements for a number of residents, or a placement is yet to come up that would be suitable for a person that goes beyond 31 October, we will certainly look at that, unquestionably.