HSE apologises to retired nurse over inquiry

THE Health Service Executive has apologised to a retired east Clare nurse over its failure to properly investigate the alleged abuse of patients in the Clare mental health service in 2003 and 2004.

The Ombudsman requested the HSE to apologise to Feakle nurse Bridie Cox after supporting her claim that complaints of abuse were not properly investigated under the HSE’s Trust in Care policy. In a letter to a HSE manager in September 2006, Ms Cox claimed the alleged abuse had been witnessed by other staff as well as by clients.

In the absence of any evidence to support the complaints, three HSE executive members who were appointed under its Trust in Care policy, concluded her allegations didn’t warrant further investigation.

However, Ms Cox has repeatedly called for a new probe which she believes would result in a different outcome as staff had closed ranks and were afraid to speak out when her initial complaint was made. Her call wasn’t supported by the Ombudsman who decided not to seek a re-opening of the case after one of its investigators who wasn’t involved in the initial review had a fresh look at her request.

He explained the key consideration concerning the merits of seeking a fresh investigation of her complaints by the HSE was the likely impact such an investigation would have on the standard of care and treatment in the Clare Mental Health Services.

The apology was issued by Director of Advocacy Mary Culliton, who noted the comments and recommendation of the Ombudsman. However, having reviewed the file, she said she was satisfied that, while the investigation did not go beyond the preliminary investigation stage under the policy, a more comprehensive investigation took place than that envisaged under the preliminary investigation stage.

While Ms Cox is happy to receive the apology, she expressed her disappointment that she was never interviewed at any stage following her initial complaint and HSE reviews.

She also expressed her disappointment that the Office of the Ombudsman has ruled against the staging of a fresh investigation of her complaints by the HSE and couldn’t understand how this would detract from the positive developments in Clare mental health services over the past few years.

A HSE spokesman said: “The allegations made by Ms Cox were investigated by the HSE and no evidence was found to support them. She has now had her complaint reviewed by the Office of the Ombudsman, who has ruled against the need for a further investigation.

“As such, we consider the matter concluded and do not intend to comment further.”