Eric J. Byrne
Question:55 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Minister for Health the progress, if any, to date regarding an inspectorate of social services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20455/96]
Written Answers. - Inspection of Social Services.
Work on the establishment of the social services inspectorate is well under way. The inspectorate will start its work in the child care area and will be established initially on an administrative basis. A consultative process with key interests such as consumer groups and health care professionals regarding the operation and structure of the Inspectorate has just been completed.
I will be making a decision on the operation and structure of the Inspectorate following a full review of the views expressed during the consultative process. This review will be completed shortly. Once I have made a decision on the operation and structure of the Inspectorate, the recruitment process will begin immediately.