Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

That is a fair point. In most nursing homes that I am aware of families are allowed to visit their loved ones, albeit in restricted time limits and circumstances. In regard to the specific case the Deputy referenced, my understanding is that HIQA has compiled a report regarding that individual case. The overall point the Deputy is making, however, is that people need an advocate or a family member to speak up for them to make sure their well-being is optimal. That cannot be argued with and it is something we will ensure continues to be policy that is operated by nursing homes generally across the country.

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