Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2015
443. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding St. John of God, North East Services in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24805/15]
View answerI welcome the publication of the HIQA inspection report published on 12 June into St. Mary's residential disability services, St. John of God North East Community Services, Drumcar, County Louth. Our ongoing priority is the safeguarding of vulnerable people in the care of the health service. I welcome the fact that a plan has been drawn up by the management in St. John of God to implement all the issues highlighted by HIQA on inspection, to ensure the safeguarding of residents, with targeted deadlines to address them.
These plans include new management structures to ensure effective governance and safeguarding of residents. However much work remains to be carried out on an ongoing basis to ensure this and all facilities comply with Disability Residential Standards. I understand that St Mary's Drumcar and the HSE have agreed to establish a Joint Task Group to support St Mary's, in addressing its immediate challenges, and planning for medium and long-term developments of the service.
I have been assured that St. John of God North East Services including all staff and management and the HSE remain fully committed to working collaboratively towards continued residential service provision in the Louth region.
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, he can contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with the HSE.
