Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Taoiseach has made the point about Áras Attracta and other settings. It is important as that is at the core of the issue and this is not only about Áras Attracta. This is not an isolated incident and there has been a range of other settings exposed for malpractice over these years. The critical matter is not just the address of the individual care home setting, there is a need for a root-and-branch re-examination of the level of training, management and oversight right across the board. That is what is required. As I have stated, I do not accept that everything is being done and steps must be taken.

I noted the commentary of Mr. Tony O'Brien, the director general of the HSE, with regard to wider use of undercover surveillance but that is such a reactive step under the assumption that things are wrong. We must take the required steps to ensure the highest standards are understood in the first instance and implemented by those we trust to look after those defenceless loved ones in our respective families. My brother is non-verbal and I can understand what was said by the sibling of one of those who will be most particularly focused upon in tonight's programme. These people are incapable of voicing or giving expression to whatever treatment they are being subjected to, and it is a terrible position and great fear for families, parents and siblings. They must know the truth of each day of their lives.

Mr. O'Brien's point is well taken but that is not the full answer. We must examine care settings right across the board and instill through retraining and uptraining the highest standards in the first instance of management and oversight in every care setting in the land. Will the Taoiseach take that on board?

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