Gino Kenny (Dublin Mid West, People Before Profit Alliance)
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364. To ask the Minister for Health if the possibility will be explored of allowing families to visit their loved ones that are end-of-life in hospices but that are not actively dying (details supplied); if a range of options that would allow same including the wearing of appropriate PPE and or outdoor visits with social distancing will be examined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9960/20]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, during these exceptional times, some of the normal aspirations of people at end of life and of their families have had to be curtailed in the interests of containing the spread of the coronavirus.In particular, restrictions have been placed on visiting hospitals and residential care settings, and the numbers attending funerals have been severely reduced, while the social distancing measures have meant that normal tactile expressions of support and comfort have not been possible.

While visiting restrictions are required in a pandemic, local risk assessment and practical management must be considered, ensuring the response is both pragmatic and proportionate. Specific scenarios where a compassionate and practical approach is required include care of the dying.

Regarding the specific case mentioned by the Deputy, the person concerned is being cared for in a residential care setting. Interim Public Health and Infection Prevention Control Guidelines on the Prevention and Management of COVID-19 Cases and Outbreaks in Residential Care Facilities published by the HSE on 4 May 2020 state that all but essential visiting by family and friends is suspended in the interests of protecting residents at this time. However, the Guidelines also acknowledge that a compassionate, pragmatic and proportionate approach is required in the care of those who are dying. The presence of a person close to the resident should be facilitated in so far as it is possible, and they should be aware of the potential infection risk. All Covid-19 guidance documents note the need for hand and respiratory hygiene and for the wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when required and that relatives are informed of the potential risk of infection to both the patient/resident and visitors.

Most hospices have all single room accommodation and are therefore in a better position to facilitate visits to patients at end of life; however, most residential care settings have multi-bedded rooms and need to be particularly cautious in balancing the needs of patients and their families with the protection of the health of visitors, other residents and the staff working in the unit. It is acknowledged by all services that restricted visiting causes significant stress and concern for individuals and families, as well as for the staff who are caring for them.

From 15 June, in accordance with guidance published by the Health Protection and Surveillance Centre (HSPSC), there will be a phased commencement of visiting at hospitals, residential healthcare centres and other residential settings where there is no ongoing Covid-19 outbreak, subject to limits on the number of visitors and the length of their visits. Visitors are asked to bear in mind the particular features of types of settings and each individual centre, also considering PPE availability and other protections. It is hoped that the easing of visiting restrictions will be able to facilitate the much needed closer contact between family members and loved ones.

In the meantime, as the specific details referred to in the Deputy's question refer to a service matter, this matter has been referred to the HSE for reply.