Investigation Launched Into Care Home

An investigation is to be launched by gardaí and health authorities following allegations that staff abused vulnerable residents at Áras Attracta Care Home.

The allegations were made during an RTÉ Primetime programme which aired on Tuesday night. The undercover investigation started after a whistleblower contacted the broadcaster about the alleged poor standards of care at the home. The programme focused on Unit Three of Áras Attracta, which is a bungalow that is home to three women who have severe intellectual disabilities. The secretly recorded footage showed residents being force-fed, kicked and slapped by staff at the Co Mayo facility.

Not every member of staff have been accused of wrongdoing at the centre, but a number have been suspended from the residential home.

Condemning the "unacceptable practices" unveiled in the footage, Minister for Primary and Social Care Kathleen Lynch, said: "I am shocked and distressed by the revelations of extremely poor and unacceptable standards of care and mistreatment of vulnerable residents in Áras Attracta.

"Every person who uses disability services is entitled to expect and receive supports of the highest standard and to live in an atmosphere of safety and care. This is particularly important for vulnerable people in residential care whose families have entrusted them to the care of professional staff.

"The allegations of mistreatment in the Prime Time programme are very disturbing and need to be fully investigated."

She added: "I have been assured that the HSE's priority is to protect the very valuable services that people residing in Áras Attracta receive as a critical support to them and their families."

Three separate investigations are now under way; by gardaí, the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA).

(JP/IT)