Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

Where a dispute or incident arises about which there is concern will this be investigated by the Health Service Executive or the Mental Health Commission? The Minister of State said that the Mental Health Commission does not have a statutory responsibility in this area but it does have an interest here. When the legislation in this regard is being drafted it will be important to ensure someone has statutory responsibility to deal with difficulties or serious incidents that may arise in this complex area.

The Minister of State said there is only one company involved. I presume there is nothing to prevent another company getting involved, in regard to which a question of vetting arises. I want to make it clear that I am not making any suggestions in regard to the current company that is involved. Vetting of personnel in this area could equally be an issue. Does the Minister of State expect this issue to be addressed by way of legislation, given the sensitive nature of the work and the need for the highest standards and understanding of the issues involved from a legal and mental health point of view?