The HSE reports for 2016 to 2020, the period for which the most recent figures are available, show that there were abuse concerns expressed in the cases of 16,000 vulnerable adults over the age of 65. The human rights of these older people have been ignored and trampled on. The concerns relate to physical, emotional, sexual and financial abuse in HSE settings. We need to vindicate the rights of those older people. We need a statutory safeguarding authority with sweeping powers to protect and vindicate those rights, and hold the perpetrators accountable.

In January, the Taoiseach told me that options were being considered to meet the concerns and needs of the families of the 23 who died in appalling circumstances in Dealgan nursing home in County Louth during the first outbreak of Covid-19. We have heard nothing since from the Minister. What is the outcome? What is going to happen? Will this Government be seen to act to vindicate the rights of those people?

I thank the Deputy. We certainly need to ensure we vindicate the rights of those people. I know the Deputy has raised the issue of Dealgan nursing home directly with the Taoiseach in the past. My understanding is that it is intended that the group set up to consider the issue will formally submit its report to the Minister for Health shortly. I will raise the matter directly with the Minister on the Deputy's behalf to ensure he is given an update. Any abuse of anyone, but in particular vulnerable adults, is absolutely reprehensible. That is why the Taoiseach and the Minister for Health have taken this matter seriously. I will seek an update from the Minister and revert to the Deputy.