James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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361. To ask the Minister for Health the rationale for the loco parentis rule whereby agency nurses working HSE home care day hours cannot permit parents to leave the home unless another adult is present; if the rule will be reviewed in view of its restrictive nature; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4000/18]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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362. To ask the Minister for Health if representatives from the various children's respite organisations (details supplied) have been or will be consulted as part of the upcoming primary care steering group meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4001/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 361 and 362 together.

I understand that the HSE has undertaken significant work in the area of Paediatric Homecare Packages and is progressing a National Quality Assurance process for these packages. I am advised that there has been engagement with families on respite needs and the findings will be included in the final report. Thereafter, the HSE will review the context for ‘Loco Parentis’ in terms of Paediatric Homecare Packages.

I have arranged for the question to be referred to the HSE for direct reply on representation on the group referred to.