Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 301: To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide a list of all public nursing homes he intends to close next year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40393/11]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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As the Deputy is aware it is a matter for the Health Service Executive to deliver services both nationally and locally within its budget; and overall health policy priorities in line with the overall resources available to it. The HSE is facing challenges in respect of all services in 2012, and in the case of Community Nursing Units these include challenges regarding staffing, funding and the age/structure of the units. In this context the Department and HSE are working together regarding the 2012 National Service Plan. Should there be concern for the future of any unit, the HSE will engage fully in a local consultation process with all stakeholders before any decision is taken.

Furthermore under the provisions of regulations under the Health Act, 2007, the HSE must provide the Health Information and Quality Authority with 6 months notice of the Unit closure. I would like to reassure the Deputy that in the case of closure of a Community Nursing Unit, every effort will be made to ensure that the transition process will be managed professionally for the residents with a view to minimising disruption and to ensure that they can be accommodated elsewhere in line with their wishes. In addition, no resident will be placed at a financial disadvantage from any closure.