Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

No, I am fine. I would like to assure the Deputy that my Department is engaging closely with the HSE to ensure that this is undertaken in a timely and comprehensive manner.

There is already a strong framework of standards, policies and procedures in place across the health sector for the safeguarding of adults who may be at risk of abuse, harm and exploitation. In addition, the current HSE adult safeguarding policy addresses every form of abuse, including sexual abuse. The HSE's adult safeguarding policy includes a zero tolerance approach that requires staff to report all abuse concerns, criminal or otherwise.

Nursing homes are required today to have in place policies and procedures to ensure residents are protected from abuse. They are also required to provide training for staff to ensure they can recognise, respond to and report any suspected abuse allegations. If immediate risks to the safety of residents are identified, they are expected to take action and prevent a recurrence. That did not happen in this case. Residents did not have their voices heard. There were other women apart from Emily and we do not know if they went through the same thing. This can also include, where required, a referral to An Garda Síochána. Nursing homes are also required to notify the chief inspector of HIQA of any suspected or alleged actual abuse within three days.

The Deputy will also be aware that I moved to introduce a patient advocacy service and it commenced its phased roll-out to private nursing homes in December 2022. It has been focusing on raising awareness of the services it provides in nursing homes nationwide.

The voice of those living in nursing homes must be heard.

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