LIVE: Admissions to nursing home featured in RTE Investigates documentary stopped by HIQA

The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has confirmed it has stopped admissions to one of two nursing homes which were featured in an RTÉ Investigates documentary, broadcast on Wednesday night.

The investigation, involving undercover researchers and secret filming, focused on two nursing homes – The Residence Portlaoise and Beneavin Manor in Glasnevin in north Dublin.

It uncovered multiple examples of care failings and neglect of vulnerable older residents.

One of RTÉ’s undercover carers witnessed multiple examples of poor manual handling with older residents frequently lifted under the arms and without the required use of proper handling equipment contrary to best practice. On some occasions staff were hampered by a lack of available equipment, while in one instance management also instructed healthcare assistants not to use hoisting equipment in public areas for fear their poor technique would be seen by visitors.

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In a statement, issued this Thursday morning, HIQA said "a number of significant concerns" were identified during inspections of the two nursing homes and as part of its "escalatory action" had stopped admissions to one of the centres.

"Further inspection reports on both of these centres are currently being finalised and will be published shortly. However, we are very concerned about the practices described in the programme and we have engaged directly with those responsible for the operation of the nursing homes," read the statement.

"Our function as a regulator is to ensure that providers are protecting those who use services and ensuring residents
are receiving safe, quality care and support. Accordingly, we will be taking the necessary actions with the provider to ensure safe and effective care and support to all residents," it added.

In a statement, issued before the broadcast of the RTÉ Investigates documentary Emeis Ireland, which operates the two nursing homes, said it "apologises unequivocally" to all residents and their families for the suffering and distress experienced as a result of failures identified in the care provided.

"We recognise and deeply regret the breach of trust that has occurred in relation to the service standards we promise, and for any failure to uphold the dignity of some residents at all times. These lapses fall short of the values and standards we set for ourselves as an organisation."

"Emeis acknowledges the serious issues raised in relation to The Residence Portlaoise and Beneavin Manor. The findings are deeply distressing, wholly unjustifiable, and entirely unacceptable. We express our deep concern, as the wellbeing, dignity, and safety of residents in our care will always remain our foremost priority."

The company says it has commenced a comprehensive review across both nursing homes. We will not tolerate any individual or systemic neglect, nor any practices that compromise resident safety, rights, or dignity.