Page 51 of the programme for Government states that the Government will: "Ensure the best possible safeguards are in place to protect our friends and family in nursing homes." Yesterday we heard the harrowing account of the treatment of one nursing home resident in County Meath, Ultan Meehan, and the condition in which he was transferred to Connolly Hospital where he later passed away.

In early June, I raised the case with the then Minister for Health, Deputy Harris, HIQA and the HSE. It is very apparent that the monitoring of private nursing homes falls between the cracks and that the system is totally inadequate. A full independent investigation is needed in this case. In the sector more broadly, we need robust safeguarding legislation and legislation to improve clinical governance. I think that is agreed across the board. What are the Taoiseach's plans for this matter? Do they involve expanding the role of HIQA and the HSE?

I think that matter has already been dealt with today.

I dealt with the issue earlier. HIQA is the regulating authority and it should compile a report on the matter. It should ensure that the family of Mr. Ultan Meehan get a comprehensive account of what happened to deal with the terrible anguish they have experienced to date, particularly Mrs. Meehan.