Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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693. To ask the Minister for Health if he will instruct the HSE to publish the Brandon report without further delay in deference to the families concerned and in the interests of accountability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54781/21]

Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
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The HSE commissioned the National Independent Review Panel to carry out a review of a residential service for adults with a disability. The review report, the Brandon Report, focuses on matters of a sensitive nature, and how they were managed.

The HSE has advised me that there is no ongoing risk to service users and that there is a commitment to the implementation of the specific recommendations arising from the report. This is in addition to making substantial changes to the wider Disability services in the area concerned and nationally in line with National Policy.

The Board has also advised that it is focused on ensuring that all of the recommendations of the report are promptly and appropriately actioned by the HSE. Actions are being taken to seek assurances requested by me and will be reported to me once concluded.

I have on a number of occasions asked the HSE to publish the report in full. To date, the HSE has informed me of its intention to publish only the Executive Summary. I will continue to engage with the HSE and its Board on the matter. I am also seeking legal advice on the matter.

The HSE informs me that An Garda Síochána has requested it not to publish any report at this time, and until it has completed its process.

I met with a number of families impacted by the findings of the Brandon Report in what were very open, heartfelt, and sobering exchanges. It is important to note that the HSE’s publication plan will require briefings to families in the first instance and the provision of appropriate supports.

It is imperative that the report leads to learning, with ensuing meaningful and tangible change. We must ensure there cannot be such serious safeguarding failures in other settings.