I propose to take Questions Nos. 1448, 1449 and 1483 together.
Dean Maxwell Community Nursing Unit in Roscrea, Co. Tipperary, is registered for 27 beds, of which 20 are long-term residential care beds funded under the Nursing Homes Support Scheme. It also provides 7 palliative, respite, or short-term care beds.
HIQA registration for beds in Dean Maxwell was renewed in 2020 and will be due for renewal again in 2023. All of the current beds meet the standards set out in the new regulations (SI 293/2016), which came into force on 1st January 2022. Therefore, HIQA has confirmed that existing residents will not be required to leave the unit on 1st January 2022. The Dean Maxwell Centre will also continue to accept new admissions beyond 31st December 2021, unless otherwise directed by HIQA.
In relation to a capital allocation for Dean Maxwell under the National Development Plan, the NDP sets out capital ceilings over the next 5-year period for the health sector. Allocations to specific projects or programmes are not included in the NDP but are determined at departmental level in the capital planning process. The HSE has an on-going minor capital programme of investment in its buildings to deal with fire and infrastructural risk. In 2021 there has been ongoing investment in properties including Dean Maxwell where funding allocated under minor capital in 2021 will be almost €60,000 for the upgrade of the Fire Detection and Alarm System and other minor improvement works. It is anticipated that similar funding will be provided from this funding source in 2022 to address any priorities identified.
While Dean Maxwell has not been selected for significant investment under the Community Nursing Unit (CNU) programme due to structural problems with the site, a significant investment has been allocated to the new CNU in Nenagh which will also serve the community in Roscrea. The HSE has also committed to securing funding for 2022 for Dean Maxwell to continue to provide day care services, short term care, and respite care. The HSE is committed to working with the local community in Roscrea on the future sustainability of the Dean Maxwell Centre and investment will be sought in line with finalised proposals/business cases. As Minister with responsibility for Older People, I am also fully committed to examining all available options in relation to securing the future sustainability of Dean Maxwell and to meeting with all stakeholders early in 2022 to progress this goal.
