Dáil recalled early to pass care legislation

THE Government yesterday announced that the Dáil will be recalled a week early in January to allow the passage of two pieces of legislation aimed at nursing homes and residential centres.

The Health Information Quality Authority and the Social Service Inspectorate will both be presented to the Dáil by Health Minister Mary Harney on January 24, a week ahead of the scheduled return date of January 31.

A Government spokesman said yesterday that Ms Harney had requested the early return of both the Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and Tánaiste Michael McDowell to facilitate the early passing of the legislation.