I move amendment No. 2: In page 9, to delete line 21 and substitute the following: “(a) the person provides a home support service to fewer than 2 persons, (ab) the person has been granted an exemption by the chief inspector from the requirements or conditions imposed by or under this Act,”. On Committee Stage we discussed the piece in relation to the number of clients. The current Bill exempts home support providers with fewer than four clients from regulation. The Minister said on Committee Stage it was decided on a proportional basis that people who do one-to-one sessions and might be personal assistants - a profile distinct from those doing just home support - would not be governed by the legislation. We agree with this in principle but the Social Democrats have concerns with the approach taken as unscrupulous employers could create a series of small providers to shirk their regulations. There is also the possibility for the Uberisation of home care providers with introductory agencies matching clients with home carers who are not subject to the regulations and will not be required to have the same standard of training or experience. Our amendment would still allow for single operators to continue working on a one-to-one basis, including personal assistants, and protect the right of an individual wishing to employ their own carer directly. However, if support is provided to more than one client, the amendment would require them to seek an exemption from HIQA. The purpose of this is to ensure the exemption is not taken advantage of by some companies and to prevent a black market of unregulated home care developing. It would also ensure HIQA has a record of the existence of single operators and is alert to any suspicious activity.

Sentiment score: 0.38

I ask the Minister that this issue be given due consideration in the review because it is important. We need to ensure there are no loopholes, no operators are getting around the regulations and that they are enforced in full. We have a concern about that, so I ask for a commitment that it will be included in the review.

Sentiment score: 0.14