If we are to have any relevance here in Dáil Éireann, we must represent and talk for the people who cannot talk for or represent themselves. I am very concerned about people not being allowed into nursing homes to visit their fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters or other loved ones because in many instances those residents cannot talk about or highlight issues for themselves and they need family members to do that. I recognise that most nursing homes are positive in that regard and are doing whatever they can for the people in their nursing homes but, sadly, we see where one man was totally neglected, and one man is too many to be neglected in this country. I am asking the Taoiseach to ensure that family members or some other loved ones can go into the nursing home to check that everything is fine with the residents who cannot talk for themselves.

That is a fair point. In most nursing homes that I am aware of families are allowed to visit their loved ones, albeit in restricted time limits and circumstances. In regard to the specific case the Deputy referenced, my understanding is that HIQA has compiled a report regarding that individual case. The overall point the Deputy is making, however, is that people need an advocate or a family member to speak up for them to make sure their well-being is optimal. That cannot be argued with and it is something we will ensure continues to be policy that is operated by nursing homes generally across the country.