Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 February 2005
147 Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position on the practice of health authorities holding the pension books of older persons in public nursing homes following the Supreme Court judgment of 16 February 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5997/05]
View answerThe Health Service Executive, which assumed responsibility for the delivery of health and personal social services with effect from 1 January 2005, has indicated that it is issuing a letter to all patients who have authorised the executive to act as their agent offering them choices with regard to their pension books and that arrangements will be made to return the pension books to them if that is their choice.
Some patients may not be in a position to make a decision regarding their arrangements and the process will have to involve the patient's next of kin. This matter will be dealt with by each nursing home and institution giving the opportunity to discuss the matter with the relevant local staff. The Health Service Executive is working with the Department of Social and Family Affairs in this regard. The emphasis is on ensuring choice is given to those who are in a position to exercise it and that the best interests of the patient are maintained at all times.
