Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy O'Dowd for casting light on this very important issue which the Government takes very seriously. It is very important that any allegations are comprehensively dealt with. The safety and protection of vulnerable people in the care of the State is paramount and my primary concern is that their needs are prioritised and addressed. The progressive development of quality care within these services is clearly demonstrated in the inspection reports regularly published by HIQA. My Department received the HIQA report earlier this week on the use of information gathered and received in the regulation of services. I have noted the steps taken relating to the handling of these issues, including decisions made in terms of referrals to other organisations.

On the safeguarding of vulnerable people at risk, of course, I support the main point put forward by Deputy O'Dowd, namely, that the Health Service Executive have a national safeguarding policy and procedure to protect vulnerable people at risk of abuse. That policy was published in 2014 and is now under review by the HSE. It is anticipated that the review will be completed by the end of 2018.

On legislation, the Government approved the development of the health sector adult safeguarding policy and work is under way to develop a clear, consistent and carefully considered and implemented policy platform including legislation as may be required. I agree with the points raised by Deputy O'Dowd. The Government is committed to bringing forward legislation on this issue.

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