Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2021
1321. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Health if the CEO and chief inspector of HIQA have met with the families of any of those who died in nursing homes during the Covid-19 pandemic; if they are willing to do so; if not, the reason this is the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13926/21]
View answerI am advised that HIQA, as an organisation, has been communicating on an ongoing basis with the families of deceased residents and from the outset have endeavoured to ensure all families have equitable access to relevant information and advice.
HIQA’s concerns team has had multiple contacts with family members and the team has endeavoured to take account of their experiences, answer their queries in relation to HIQA’s regulatory role, and signpost families appropriately to have their questions answered by the relevant agency. HIQA is satisfied that the systems that have been put in place are effective and will remain in place.
My Department liaised with the Chief Inspector in relation to facilitating access to advocacy services for residents of Dealgan House Nursing Home and their families and this service was subsequently made available by the Patient Advocacy Service.
