John Cregan (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)

What we saw was appalling, but an investigation has taken place. It is right that we should want to know the results of that investigation as quickly as possible to ensure we do not have a repeat of the Leas Cross incident. It is important we acknowledge the results of the investigation and deal with them at the earliest possible time. However, the Health Service Executive has stated that if the report is published, the matter could end up in the courts. None of us would like that to happen because it could cause the process to be delayed for months or even years. Sensible solutions have to be found. All of us have a responsibility to ensure that what happened at Leas Cross is not repeated. The lessons which have been learned from the Leas Cross incident must be put into practice to ensure that those elderly people who need it can benefit from a proper, decent and good level of nursing care. It is the least that such people deserve, having made an important contribution to society.

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