Hiqa: Non-compliance at Áras Attracta

An unannounced Hiqa inspection of Áras Attracta, a Co Mayo facility for people with learning difficulties, has found major non-compliance with regard to the statutory rights of residents.

The report indicated the facility failed to uphold patients’ rights and dignity.

The facility hit headlines last year when a probe found evidence of staff slapping, kicking, force-feeding, and verbally abusing elderly residents.

In January, a Hiqa inquiry highlighted unsafe medication practices and said the premises was unclean.

The latest report, carried out in April and released last night, said while there was a significant improvement at the facility, certain issues have yet to be addressed.

Inspectors criticised centralised preparation of meals, use of hospital beds, and the non-personalisation of bedrooms.