Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 March 2013
617. Deputy Michael P. Kitt asked the Minister for Health the proposals in place to deal with fire safety issues at a nursing home (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12656/13]
View answerThe registration of St. Anne's Nursing Home, Woodford, County Galway was cancelled by the Chief Inspector of Social Services on Friday, 10 February 2012 under section 51 of the Health Act, 2007, as amended. The then registered provider consented to this cancellation. The grounds for the cancellation related to the lack of fitness shown by the then registered provider in addressing significant fire safety concerns in the centre. The HSE took charge of the centre in accordance with section 64 of the Act and made alternative arrangements for the residents. The centre closed on 13 February 2012.
As the centre is now closed, it cannot operate again as a nursing home unless a new application for registration is made to the Chief Inspector. Should such an application be made, evidence of compliance with fire safety requirements would have to be submitted by any applicant. This is a requirement under the relevant Registration Regulations. To date, no application for a new registration of this centre has been received by the Authority.
