Eric J. Byrne
Question:14 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Minister for Health the current position in relation to the establishment of an inspectorate of social services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12138/97]
Written Answers - Inspectorate of Social Services.
I am committed to the establishment of an inspectorate of social services which will concentrate initially on the child care area. Towards this end, last year I arranged for a comprehensive consultative process involving health professionals and other key interests. This process identified a number of important issues which must be resolved before proceeding. Among these issues the most significant are: the structure of the inspectorate and the nature of its relationship with the Department of Health and the extent to which the inspectorate will be involved in child care inquiries.
I am considering the issues which have been raised during the consultation process and I hope to bring the matter to Government shortly.