asked the Minister for Health the level of monitoring carried out in relation to private nursing homes in the South Eastern Health Board area; if he is satisfied that the patients in such institutions are getting value for money; and if he is satisfied with the operation of such institutions.
Written Answers. - Private Nursing Homes.
112.
Inspections of private nursing homes are governed by the Homes for Incapacitated Persons Regulations which were made by me in 1985. The enforcement and execution of these regulations are primarily matters for the various health boards. Each health board is required, under these regulations, to inspect each nursing home at least once in every six months. I, as Minister for Health, have no specific function in ensuring that patients are getting value for money but I am generally satisfied with the operation of these nursing homes.