There has been much frustration, speculation and concern about the future of respite beds at Birr Community Nursing Unit in County Offaly. Respite beds have been moved from the unit to other units. There is a great deal of uncertainty over whether the move is permanent or temporary. I would like some clarity on that. We need urgent assurances from the HSE that this is just a temporary move. We also need assurances that the numbers of respite beds at Birr Community Nursing Unit will be increased because there is a huge demand for respite beds in the Birr area.

I do not have details on either the legislative or the specific circumstances of that facility. If the Deputy forwards them on, we can see if an answer can be found to the question.