Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

Like the Taoiseach and Deputy Kenny, I was shocked. It is shameful for the Government and shameful for our society that what was depicted so graphically last night could happen in modern day society. Private nursing homes are now a part of the health services infrastructure and the new Minister for Health and Children has said they will play a greater role in the future. They are unregulated and operate under the very poor legislation introduced in 1990. Even the minimal standards established therein have been unenforced and general invigilation of standards does not apply.

Will the Taoiseach clarify whether this institution is one of those involved in the Tánaiste's tendering to the private sector for approximately 500 places for step-down care? The Taoiseach opened the home himself, did he not? Are these homes included in the tenders? My colleague, Deputy Burton, submitted an amendment to the Finance Bill to make tax relief arrangements compatible with standards of care and health criteria but it was rejected by the Minister for Finance, Deputy Cowen. Will the Taoiseach rethink his Government's decision not to proceed with the whistleblowers Bill given the relevance of it in this situation and the campaign by the INO to deal with cover ups by giving protection to staff and others? Is the Taoiseach committing to an independent inspectorate? As we know, the Health (Nursing Homes) Act 1990 is insufficient.

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