Care centre ‘violating human rights’ hit by cuts

A CARE centre for the intellectually disabled where chronic under-funding led to human rights violations has suffered even more cutbacks since its shortcomings were highlighted.

In developments described as “disappointing” and “disturbing,” the John Paul Centre run by the Brothers of Charity in Galway city has had to let go staff, close two community homes and suspend some waiting lists as it struggles to survive.

A Irish Human Rights Commission (IHRC) investigation last March found the centre, which provides services for 77 people, was under-funded, overcrowded, inadequately staffed and unable to provide sufficient essential therapies — in particular speech and language therapy.