I seek clarification on the ability of carers employed by the HSE or by private companies to administer medication to their clients. I am talking about medically prescribed medication that needs to be taken by those being cared for. Many people who require care have complex health needs and require daily medication. Carers help by reminding patients and clients of the need for the medication and by giving them the tablets, drops or whatever. I have been contacted by a number of families in Wexford who have told me that carers have now been informed by the HSE that they cannot administer medications to these families' loved ones. This is obviously causing great anxiety and significant difficulty, especially for those who live alone and who are physically unable to administer medicines to themselves. Will the Tánaiste have that matter reviewed?

I certainly can. I am not familiar with the background but it seems systems can tie themselves up in knots unnecessarily. I do not see how else prescription medicines can be administered, particularly to senior citizens, people who are infirm and so on, if not by family members or carers, in accordance with guidance-----

It means family members have to come in.

-----from the GP and medical authorities. I will contact the Minister for Health.