Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Government appointed a Minister of State with particular responsibility for people with disabilities, which was the right thing to do. We are all aware of the poor standards that historically have prevailed in many residential institutions. I welcome the work HIQA is doing which the Government wants to support. Many of these facilities remained hidden and there was bad management behind closed doors. We are now seeing independence being brought to bear in examining the standards in residential homes through the work of HIQA. I welcome its work in ensuring various residential services reach the proper standards. I agree with the Deputy that it is extremely disappointing that we continue to hear about poor standards in residential services; it is not good enough. That is why we support HIQA's work and have dedicated €300 million to ensuring residential disability services reach the proper standards and will be fully compliant. The Minister of State with responsibility for people with disabilities is absolutely committed to ensuring residential facilities reach the appropriate standards. He is dedicated to doing this, while the Government is dedicated to providing the funding required both for HIQA and the various service providers to ensure it will happen. Those running services have a responsibility to ensure their staff and facilities reach HIQA standards. If not, they will be exposed and action taken. Recently, the HSE took over responsibility for a number of facilities.

On St. Augustine's, the Minister of State met the families. The Minister, Deputy Simon Harris, was also involved. As the Deputy knows, a decision has been made in that regard.

The money use to make top-up payments should be returned. The Ministers for Public Expenditure and Reform and Health are actively involved in analysing the matter, including the pay guidelines which should have been met. They will ensure action is taken in order that, if money is due to the State, it will be recouped.

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