Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

On the Leas Cross report, most people agree the Minister for Health and Children would not show favour or turn a blind eye were an issue of public concern to arise. Her curriculum vitae is a model of propriety and accountability for all legislators. For this reason, it is evident that her hands are tied in regard to publication of the Leas Cross report. While we all have concerns about this matter, it is more important to focus on the main issue. From the comments of Senators and many other commentators, it is clear members of the public are concerned about the terrible tragedy which occurred in Leas Cross and some other nursing homes. Senators hear on the grapevine about concerns people have about certain nursing homes, although the cases in question may not be as extreme as the Leas Cross case.

As Senator O'Toole indicated, a watertight regular inspection regime is required but I would go a step further. The families of patients also feel vulnerable and at times intimidated. They must be in a position to raise concerns in confidence in the certain knowledge they will be followed up. While most nursing homes do an excellent job, some proprietors are motivated solely by profit, with the result that corners are cut and patients are placed together in rooms where they receive no help or invigoration. Whether the agency involved is the HSE or the Department, a mechanism should be in place to allow families to communicate concerns in confidence. As a consequence of the Leas Cross case, every nursing home should be subject to a detailed audit which must include communication with the families of nursing home patients.