Health Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 February 2013

Tuesday, 19 February 2013

Questions (679)

Colm Keaveney

Question:

679. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Health if he will provide a commitment that a residential unit (details supplied) in County Galway will continue in its current use and provide a commitment that medical staff there, in line with the ethical guidelines of their professions, should not be intimidated out of speaking publicly to defend the welfare of their patients by Health Service Executive west management as is now being attempted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8197/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Kathleen Lynch)

The HSE, which has operational responsibility for this unit, recently commenced measures to address safety issues identified at the facility. The Executive has indicated that it will continue to work with relevant stakeholders, including medical staff, to ensure that the safety of residents remains the primary concern. Pending the outcome of a review of 24 hour residential facilities for East Galway Mental Health services generally, no decision has been taken in relation to the future use of the unit.