A private nursing home in Cork has been criticised by the State's health care services' watchdog for failing to ensure that “an effective and safe service” was provided for residents.

The Health Service Executive has moved to allay fears of widespread closure of nursing homes that do not meet the standards set out by the health watchdog.

Three hospitals have issued visitor bans on the public after the HSE confirmed the country is in the grip of a major flu outbreak.

A 14-year campaign for long-term, residential facilities for the elderly in the Kerry capital ended yesterday when 43 people started moving into the Tralee Community Nursing Unit.

A change of heart by Health Minister James Reilly in relation to a €9.6m hospital for the elderly in Tralee was welcomed in the town yesterday.