John Deasy (Waterford, Fine Gael)
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Question 243: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the reason homes providing short-term respite care are required to provide the same level of qualified nursing support as homes providing long-term residential care or nursing home care; her plans to change the regulations in respect of registering care homes for persons that do not require nursing care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2493/11]

Áine Brady (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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It is important that we have effective mechanisms in place to maintain and enhance public confidence in the delivery of quality services. The welfare and safety of each individual resident guides us in reforming the health service and the Government place great importance on the policies, standards and legislation we are implementing. Residents, their families and the public need to be reassured that an independent regulator is monitoring the care people receive.

The Health Act, 2007 provides this, with a regime designed to protect the public through an independent inspection and registration system for residential services. On 1 July 2009 statutory responsibility was given to the Chief Inspector of Social Services, part of the Health Information and Quality Authority, for registering and inspecting all residential care settings for older people. This responsibility is underpinned by a comprehensive quality framework comprising the Health Act 2007, the Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Residents in Designated Centres for Older People) Regulations and the National Quality Standards for Residential Care Settings for Older People in Ireland. Our overall emphasis is on promoting a high quality individual centred service, delivered to those who require it and in the most appropriate setting. In this regard all designated centres, as defined by the Health Act 2007, providing residential services for older people, must comply with both the Regulations and Standards.

I can, however, advise the Deputy that my Department recently commenced a review of the Care and Welfare Regulations. As part of the review submissions are welcomed from any individual, group or other body who wishes to make a contribution. Closing date for receipt of submissions is Monday, 31 January 2011 and further details are available at www.dohc.ie/consultations. The issues raised in submissions, including issues specific to this type of service, will be borne in mind when carrying out this review, which is due to be completed by mid-2011.