Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
1689. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if there are plans to examine the rising costs for residents in nursing homes (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42685/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am acutely aware of the specific challenges faced by the Nursing Home sector related to price inflation and increased energy costs. I have met directly with Nursing Homes Ireland (NHI), the representative organisation for private and voluntary nursing homes, most recently on Friday the 8th July. I updated them in detail on progress being made in relation to this matter. I have also met with the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) to request that they consider the matter alongside departmental officials. I have visited a number of Nursing Homes recently to discuss this issue with management of both public and private/voluntary nursing units. It is imperative that nursing homes manage potential cost pressures in line with their regulatory and contractual responsibilities, maintaining their quality of care so that residents’ lived experience and comfort is not affected. I hope to be in a position to revert to NHI again shortly following engagement with the Department for Public Expenditure and Reform.
