Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 May 2017
237. Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Health if approval will be given to grant an extension on the two week HIQA closure order to allow staff of an organisation (details supplied) sufficient time to ensure all HIQA requirements are met; if approval for funding will be given to facilitate employment of required qualified persons in line with HIQA recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24969/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Health Act 2007 provided for the establishment of the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA), its inspection and regulation of designated centres, and the framework for registration of these designated centres. The Act sets out the provisions for service providers to respond to decisions made by HIQA and to appeal decisions to the District Court if required. There is no provision in the Act for the Minister for Health to intervene in decisions made by HIQA or the District Court in these matters.
As the Deputy will be aware, HIQA is a fully independent authority charged with ensuring high-quality and safe care for people using our health and social care services in Ireland. I am assured that HIQA takes a proportionate and measured response to issues arising during the inspection and regulation process, and only takes escalated action where significant concerns are present.
The safety and protection of vulnerable people in the care of the State is paramount. My Department will remain in close contact with the HSE to ensure that all necessary actions are now taken in respect of the centre in question to ensure that its residents are cared for appropriately.
The issue of any additional funding requirements in this regard is a service matter for the HSE. Accordingly I have referred the Deputy’s question to the HSE and have asked that the Executive reply directly to the Deputy on the matter.
