Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The programme last night uncovered shocking treatment of vulnerable people in the units investigated. No excuse should be offered to defend what happened, as there is no defence for it. It was distressing and upsetting. There was a lack of training, management, supervision and almost everything else in that elderly care unit. On behalf of the Government, I express deep concern with the situation described on "Prime Time" regarding Leas Cross nursing home.

As we have announced, the Government is determined that a new and stronger regulatory system will be put in place so vulnerable people,particularly the elderly, are protected. The relevant Bill to establish the social services inspectorate on a statutory basis to deal with both private and public nursing homes will be published later this year. In answer to questions asked outside the House, the inspectorate will be independent of the HSE. The Department of Health and Children is reviewing the operation of the 1990 and 1993 nursing home Acts to strengthen the powers available to the regulatory authorities. The HSE has been working for considerable time on a national approach to the inspection of nursing homes. This work will be assisted by the fact the HSE is a national agency unlike the old system of health boards.

The Deputy asked me about the reports that will be prepared. The Tánaiste has asked that these reports be made available to relatives or others for examination.

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