Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

It is obvious from the Leas Cross report that the inspection system in place did not work as well as it should have and failed the patients at Leas Cross. On foot of this, the HSE sought a report which Professor O'Neill produced. Even before the report was published, the HSE had embarked on changing the way in which inspection teams worked. It is intended to establish dedicated teams, provide proper training programmes for them and have a standardised approach nationally. The inspection reports will be published. This process only began in September. It is an important step towards ensuring proper standards of care in homes. It will benefit patients and families to know homes are inspected regularly and that they are providing proper care. The health Bill will be published next week. Adequate resources have been provided to establish the HIQA. This is necessary in providing proper care for older people, for which we have made adequate provision.

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