Louise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein)
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486. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to allow residents in community houses to leave the houses and travel to and from home; when the families and community houses will be given an indication of timelines for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13188/20]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I note that the Deputy has clarified that her question relates in this instance to residential settings for people with a disability, and where the residential setting is the person’s primary residence.

It is recognised that the impact of COVID-19 on society in general and especially those with a disability living in community houses has been considerable. Residential settings are people’s homes as well as places where health and social care are provided. The introduction of physical distancing, isolation and restricted contact with family and loved ones has changed the usual dynamic of social interaction. During these times there has been a particular emphasis on retaining a holistic view of the wellbeing of residents, remaining person-centred, being cognisant of their rights as citizens, and being vigilant that in seeking to shield them from infection that these rights are not infringed upon in to an extent, or in a manner, that is disproportionate.

As the disease is becoming more supressed in the community the National Public Health Emergency has advised that the gradual reintroduction of usual activities while taking public health precautions should commence. This advice is reflected in the latest Cocooning and visiting guidance. Detail of this guidance is set out by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre at:

Families are encouraged to talk to the support staff at the person’s residence, to make arrangements for visits and other activities that can be facilitated within the current public health guidance. While it is appropriate in line with the public health cocooning guidance for activities outside the home to commence it is important to balance the risk involved in prolonged periods of time outside the home. These risks will continue to be reviewed in line with the disease progression and guidelines will be updated.  The Department of Health is very much aware of how difficult the current restrictions on visiting are for residents and their families, and we very much hope that this can be safely facilitated soon.