Health Services.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2009

Tuesday, 10 February 2009

Questions (250, 251)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

303 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has received a report from the Health Service Executive regarding the closure of a nursing home (details supplied) in County Wicklow due to health and safety concerns; if this home had previously been reported to her Department and the HSE in relation to health and safety issues; if the building has obtained an annual fire safety certificate in recent years; the alternative accommodation that will be provided; the type of inquiry that will be undertaken by her Department and the HSE; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4498/09]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Máire Hoctor)

The Deputy may be aware that the nursing home in question is a public Welfare Home, built in the 1960's with a lifespan of approx 20 years. Following consideration of a recent Environmental Health Report the HSE decided to close the Home, primarily for health and safety concerns and difficulty meeting fire safety requirements. The Department has received briefing on this decision. However, as this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Michael McGrath

Question:

304 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of compensation payments made by the Health Service Executive in Cork City and County for the years 2006, 2007 and 2008, in respect of all claims against the health service in that area; and the steps the HSE is taking to address the level of claims. [4500/09]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.