David Norris (Independent)

I thank the Minister of State for addressing the situation. I accept that she is not personally responsible for the inadequacy of her reply. She might not be in a position to agree with me, on the record, that it is inadequate. The reply she read made it clear that the HSE has not made a decision to close the facility. However, the HSE has not made a decision to keep it open either. The indecision in this case is leaving elderly people in a real quandary, which is an appalling prospect for them at this stage of their lives. The Minister of State has acknowledged that a report was commissioned. Almost a year has passed since it was received, but no decision has been made. When will the report be made public?

Can the Minister of State obtain for me written answers to the questions I have asked? I accept that ministerial replies to Adjournment matters are prepared before specific questions are made available. I understand that to be the form of this House. I would be very grateful if the Minister of State could arrange for the questions I have asked, which will be reproduced in the Official Report, to be answered. Will the Bethany House facility be kept open? If not, when will it be closed? When will the report be made public? When will it be acted upon? These questions need to be answered if relatives, patients and staff are to be reassured.