The Government is very committed to the protection and safety of our most vulnerable citizens and placed regulation and inspection of residential disability centres on a statutory footing in November 2013. Every person who uses disability services is entitled to expect and receive care of the highest standard and to live in dignity and safety. People with a disability should be able to maximise their potential and live rich and fulfilling lives.
Compliance with HIQA standards for disability residential centres is a requirement under the Service Level Arrangements between the HSE and voluntary service providers.
As discussions on budgetary issues are ongoing between the Department of Health, the HSE and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, I am not in a position to comment on the outcome of the process at this stage.