Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 18: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if it is now appropriate to have an official inquiry into the sequence of events that took place at the Leas Cross Nursing Home; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12028/07]

Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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The Leas Cross report was published by the Health Service Executive on the 10th November 2006. The Health Service Executive has confirmed that it fully accepts the recommendations made by Professor O'Neill and has already addressed many of these that apply to the HSE. My Department and the HSE are working together to implement the report's recommendations.

My colleague, the Minister for Health & Children has had discussions with a group representing relatives of patients at Leas Cross Nursing Home. She has indicated that she will ask a Senior Counsel to carry out an inquiry into matters relating to Leas Cross.

The Department is currently in discussion with the Office of the Attorney General in relation to the drafting of the terms of reference. Officials of the Department will meet with the relatives group shortly to discuss the terms of reference.

The Department is also implementing significant changes to give the required assurance to older people about care standards. A thorough and robust system of inspections is vital. The Health Bill 2006 provides for the first time for an independent, statutory body to set standards and inspect all nursing home places, both public and private. This will also strengthen the registration and de-registration process. New draft standards for all long-term residential care facilities for older people have also been prepared and will be the subject of consultation with key stakeholders.