It is the usual practice of the Eastern Health Board to engage in discussions with residents, either directly or through their representatives, in relation to the purchase of houses for residential units in order to explain the operation of the unit and to allay any fears and concerns which residents may have. However, there was a difficulty in this case due to the absence on sick leave of a member of the board's staff which resulted in the residents becoming aware of the proposal before they were officially informed. I understand the board has expressed its regret to the residents' association on this account.
The Eastern Health Board has a statutory duty to provide care for children at risk. At present, the board has approximately 1,400 children in its care of whom about 1,000 are placed in foster care. The remaining 400 are placed in residential settings operated directly by the board or by voluntary agencies acting on behalf of the board. In line with national policy the board aims to accommodate children in small family group homes in local communities rather than large institutional settings. This helps to integrate children with the community and the house in question is suitable in this context.
I understand the board plans to establish a liaison committee with the co-operation of the residents' association in order to deal with any concerns which may arise. The board has assured me that any complaints or queries will be dealt with by the unit manager and-or the area social work manager as effectively and speedily as possible.
