Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

As a result of this there are significant challenges for both Loughloe House and St. Vincent's in meeting the necessary HIQA requirements, given the design, age and conditions of the two buildings.

Loughloe House has been inspected by HIQA. Numerous concerns have been raised in the course of this inspection both in terms of the physical infrastructure and in regard to management and staffing issues. Concerns also exist regarding the fire safety precautions at the home. With these considerations in mind, the Health Service Executive has decided that it has no option but to proceed with the orderly, phased closure of Loughloe House.

There will be a consultation process with residents and their families with a view to organising transfers into private or public nursing homes in the surrounding areas. This consultation was scheduled to be taking place around this time. There are more than sufficient vacancies to cater for the residents of Loughloe House. The safety of the residents is our first concern. We owe them a duty of care. I am sure the House will agree that quality care and patient safety comes first and all patients should receive the same high standard of quality-assured care.

The Minister for Health and Children does not have any further update since the report that was completed on 29 April, but if the Senator wishes to raise the matter again with the Minister, she will have it re-examined and obtain more up-to-date information for her.