Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I begin by commending you, a Cheann Comhairle, and your office on facilitating the planting of the tree of hope on the lawn at Teach Laighean. I also thank Noeleen Fulham and her group as well as Deputy Mary Lou McDonald, who initiated the project here. It was a simple but uplifting event.

I want to ask the Taoiseach about the Government commitment to review legislation relating to elder abuse. Earlier this week, a Red C poll on behalf of the Health Information and Quality Authority, HIQA, found that 63% of people have endured poor provision of health and social services. HIQA's 2016 report, published last month, stated that services are still not adequately providing protection for citizens from harm or abuse. The report recommended new legislation that would enshrine adult safeguarding in law and acknowledge the State's responsibility to protect those who may be at risk.

Two years ago, I urged the Taoiseach to establish a public inquiry into care provision in homes for citizens with intellectual disabilities, including elders. The Taoiseach refused to do that. Now, on foot of these two reports, when will the Taoiseach introduce legislation to safeguard vulnerable adults?

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