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I've been involved in previous systems for regulating care homes. It's a tough job because costs are trimmed to the bone and some home owners made it even harder with threatening and belligerant attitudes, even explicit threats to my personal safety. But you can't let it be about yourself because the task is to safeguard some of the most vulnerable people in our society. And I know from experience that this requires a lot more than a 'light touch' of regulation and inspection. Failing care homes need frequent monitoring, but also support to change if they lack the expertise or will to become safe and effective carers.

If Ms Bower cannot move on from this and get a real grip on ensuring that standards are maintained, she should consider her position and the Department should consider the fitness for purpose of the Commission itself.