Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 July 2021
2889. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Health the number of meetings between him and families bereaved by Covid-19 related deaths in nursing homes; the number of meetings between the Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People and families bereaved by Covid-19 related deaths; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39483/21]
View answerThe COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented challenge across our health services and none more so than in our nursing homes. The pandemic has been a hugely difficult time for all residents, relatives, and staff of nursing homes and I would like to express my condolences to all those who have lost a loved one during this period.
Both Minister Donnelly and I have met with families who had experienced bereavement of a loved one in a nursing home. I also met with representatives from the Care Champions group on 12 July this year, including members of bereaved families. I am grateful to those families for sharing their difficult, personal experiences with me as I believe that it is vital that our learning throughout this pandemic is informed by listening to families.
