The Health Information and Quality Authority, in conjunction with the Council of Europe, is holding a European conference on “Enhancing the Quality of Social Care” today, Tuesday 9th December, in Farmleigh House, Dublin. 

“We are delighted to be hosting the conference in Ireland to promote the Council of Europe’s recommendations to improve the safety and quality of life for older and younger people with disabilities in the 47 member states. This event marks an important step towards the establishment of a European network, and reflects the Authority’s commitment to driving safety and quality in this area” said Dr. Marion Witton, Chief Inspector of the Social Services Inspectorate at the Health Information and Quality Authority.

The conference will bring together expert speakers from across Europe including service providers, service-users, regulators and policy makers. Mr Alexander Vladychenko, Director General of the Social Cohesion Directorate for the Council of Europe, the keynote speaker at the conference, will be speaking about the Recommendations of the Committee of Experts on Ageing for people with disabilities.

The conference will hear the direct experience of service-user J Patrick Clarke, Vice President of Down Syndrome Ireland, who will speak on the importance of the inclusion of people with disabilities in their communities.

The conference will be addressed by John Moloney TD, Minister for Equality, Disability and Mental Health in the Department of Health and Children.

Dr. Witton said “I am delighted the Authority has led Ireland’s involvement in this initiative. Promoting safety and quality to drive continuous improvements in Ireland’s health and social care services is at heart of the Authority’s remit.”

Ends.

Further Information: 

Sinead Whooley,

Communications Manager,

Health Information and Quality Authority,

087 922 1941.

Notes to the Editor: 

The Health Information and Quality Authority is the independent Authority which has been established to drive continuous improvement in Ireland’s health and social care services. The Authority was established as part of the Government’s overall Health Service Reform Programme. The Authority’s mandate extends across the quality and safety of the public, private (within its social care function) and voluntary sectors.