Pat Buckley (Cork East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The motion calls for a public inquiry into the deaths of people in nursing homes during Covid-19, including the quality of care that was provided. I am conscious there has to be balance found here. Nursing home staff have been under severe pressure and resources are probably also a factor. The Irish Association of Social Workers and the bereaved families of residents of the Ballynoe nursing home in Glanmire are also calling for a public inquiry. The inquiry must get answers to the families' questions on the lack of infection control, serious neglect of residents, staff calls for help to the HSE Covid-19 response team not resulting in any additional supports, lack of nutritional fluids and residents being left for hours on end during the Covid-19 outbreak. The list goes on and on. This is a very worrying issue and excuses will not wear well with the people who need answers for those they have lost.

I am calling on Deputies across the House to support the motion. We need clarity for these people. We must ensure this never happens again. That is one of the most important points here.

I pay homage to the staff and families who did their best in extreme difficulty. Unfortunately, sometimes the best is not enough.

Last week, we were discussing another centre in my home town, the Owenacurra Health Centre, which has never had a Covid-19 case. In that context, we have to congratulate people as well.

I urge the Government to support Deputy Cullinane's motion, support all of us, support the families who have lost loved ones and also to support the staff in these nursing homes, and their families, so we can emerge with a proper result. However, it must be clear, adequate and solid. People need real answers. People have to be accountable and responsible for this as well. My final call is for the House to support this motion.

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