Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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1348. To ask the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding St. Mary of the Angels, Beaufort, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1917/17]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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I was delighted to visit St Mary of the Angels last week and I would like to express my gratitude for the welcome I received from residents and their families along with staff and management. The occasion allowed the representatives of the parents and relatives of family members to tell their personal stories and I can say that this was a very positive engagement for me with residents and staff.

I reiterated several key points that have been previously agreed between the Health Service Executive (HSE) and St. John of God (SJOG) as follows:

1. Residents will only move out of St. Mary's if they, and their family members agree that it is in their best interests. Any opportunity for residents to live in smaller settings in the community will come after considerable planning and discussion with those residents and their families.

2. If any resident moves from St Mary of the Angels, it will be on the basis that it will enhance their life. Anyone who moves will continue to access the services they require. If a resident experiences difficulties after moving out, all options will be explored – including moving back to St. Mary of the Angel's for a short or long period of time.

3. No planning for any move will take place without an open and inclusive discussion with residents and their families, based on the assessments and as part of the care-planning process.

4. The HSE agreed to take on board a suggestion from the representative group that a group representing family members, SJOG and the HSE should be established. The aim is to work together in the best interests of the residents.

The HSE hope to schedule the first meeting in the very near future and I am hopeful that this Group will have a positive impact.

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy.