Once again we have very disturbing, upsetting news from the north west and once again a question mark is placed over the ability of the HSE to safely provide services to citizens with disabilities. I understand the Minister is to establish an independent review not just into this latest episode but into the services more generally. When will the terms of reference for the review be published? Who will lead that review?

When will the programme for Government commitments on safeguarding legislation be fulfilled? The legislation must include mandatory reporting and the legal right of entry for safeguarding and social care teams. It is urgent and essential if we are to ensure citizens are safe, that they are delivered quality services and above all else, that they have recourse in the event that things go wrong and where vulnerable people are failed.

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue. HIQA advised the Minister, Deputy Stephen Donnelly, and the Minister of State, Deputy Rabbitte, in December 2021 that the chief inspector had concerns about the ongoing governance of social care in community healthcare organisation, CHO, 1 and about a recent very serious adult and child safeguarding concern. The chief inspector of social services has instigated a regulatory programme requiring the HSE to take action to improve the quality of life for residents and regulatory compliance. HIQA is monitoring the progress with the HSE in that regard. It is my understanding the Minister met HIQA and the HSE and the Department of Health is now preparing the terms of reference for the scoping exercise to strengthen safeguarding practice. Further work meetings are to take place between the Minister and the Department in respect of that.

I will come back to the Deputy on the timelines for the legislation.