Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 December 2004
110 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the need for an independent inspectorate of nursing homes; if so, when she proposes to establish such a body; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31541/04]
View answerThe inspection of private nursing homes is the responsibility of the health boards under the Health (Nursing Homes) Act 1990. Regulations made under this Act empower health boards to inspect private nursing homes. My Department has established a working group comprising all stakeholders to review the operation and administration of the nursing home subvention scheme. As part of this review the working group will make recommendations on the development and implementation of quality care standards in institutional settings and examine all issues connected with the regulation of private nursing homes, including the inspection process. It is intended that the inspection of private and public long-stay facilities will fall under the remit of the social services inspectorate in due course.
