I propose to take Questions Nos. 151 to 156, inclusive, together.
My Department recently received a copy of Children in Hospital, Ireland's report entitled "Children being cared for in adult wards". This report has raised a number of issues, which are under review by officials in my Department.
I am supportive of the suggestion that in circumstances where children have to share facilities with adults in an acute hospital setting the hospital management should establish protocols which take account of the sensitivities and needs of all patients concerned, particularly in relation to the children. I am committed to providing acute care in an environment appropriate to the needs of all patients in line with established best practice. I am conscious that where emergency treatment is required the provision of the treatment is the priority rather than the location in which it is provided.
A charter of rights for hospitals patients was introduced in August 1992. The charter provides guidelines for good standards of practice in acute hospitals for all patients, including children, be they in acute general hospitals or in specialist acute paediatric units.
My officials are reviewing the report and will be in contact with representatives of Children in Hospital, Ireland in the near future to discuss the content of their report and any issues which arise in the course of the review.