Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left)
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231. To ask the Minister for Health if the examination of abuse of vulnerable adults in the south east region, which was being conducted by Resilience Ireland, has ceased; the cost of this investigation; if a senior counsel has now been commissioned to carry out this work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24470/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The HSE has been involved in undertaking an inquiry into the standard of care provided by one foster family in the South East over an extended period. The HSE inquiry involved two distinct phases. The first phase, which commenced in 2010, examined the standard of care provided to one person (with an intellectual disability) who resided with the Foster family. That report was completed in March 2012.

A complex legal process followed the completion of the first phase of the investigation. Once this had been resolved, the second phase involved a full tracing and look-back exercise in relation to all clients (living and agreeable to the process) who had contact with the foster family concerned.

Flowing from that process in 2013 it was decided that all placements with the foster family should be reviewed and that, as an initial step, it was necessary to undertake a review of available statutory records. In December 2013, Resilience Ireland was appointed to undertake the work involved.

The HSE have been precluded from publishing the report of the inquiry into these matters and the report of the review undertaken by Resilience Ireland, pending completion of a criminal investigation by An Garda Síochána. The Minister for Health and I remain concerned to ensure that these matters are brought to a conclusion as quickly as possible. However, we are obliged to ensure that the Garda investigation is not in any way prejudiced.

Arising from questions raised and following careful consideration, it has been decided to appoint a Senior Counsel to outline and examine the procurement process in commissioning the two reviews and the approach taken in conducting the two exercises. Appointment of Counsel to conduct this matter is under consideration and appropriate terms of reference which take account of the ongoing Garda investigation are being developed in accordance with legal advice.

With regard to the cost of the investigation, as the Deputy's question relates to service matters, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, she can contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with the HSE.