Mr. Bernard O'Regan:

May I comment briefly? Obviously, I do not know the specifics of the case the Deputy has identified. If she wants to have a conversation with me after the meeting to follow up on that with her, I am happy to do so. In general, however, residential services are covered by regulation and are inspected by HIQA. There are requirements that those in residential services have access to appropriate multidisciplinary supports. In a way, therefore, there is a legal structure in place to help to drive something. There may be challenges in respect of availability, but I know that many providers of residential services try to source appropriate supports depending on the profile of the people in their services. However, it should never be the case that somebody is on medications outside of proper supervision and review of those medications. Also, the use of medication as an alternative to appropriate services is not acceptable anywhere. I would be happy to follow up on that matter.

The definitions of home support - and this overlaps a little with definitions of PA services - are something we are working on. We will convene a group to bring some clarity of definition and consistency in respect of accessing services because we are very aware of the type of issue Deputy Tully raises. Part of our national service plan commitment for this year is to progress that.