Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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999. To ask the Minister for Health if he will investigate and address the unacceptable miscommunication that has taken place between HIQA and his Department in regard to the availability of a bereavement service for persons who have lost loved ones in a nursing home, such as a person (details supplied); his plans to ensure that his officials respond directly to the person in respect of this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14663/20]

Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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As Minister I cannot comment in relation to the details of an individual case. However, I understand that HIQA communicated directly with affected family members on 30th June to clarify matters and apologise for any confusion caused by the miscommunication.

I have further been advised that the Patient Advocacy Service (PAS) is currently involved in early discussions with the nursing home involved to establish if it is possible to extend its remit to provide patient advocacy support to residents and families affected.

I would like to acknowledge that these are very sad and challenging times for anybody who has suffered the loss of a loved one, and should anyone wish to receive bereavement support, the Hospice Bereavement Support Line is 1800 80 70 77 and is currently open from 10am to 1pm Monday to Friday.