Hiqa hits Áras Attracta with notice

The Áras Attracta facility for people with learning disabilities has been issued with a notice of proposal to cancel the registration of one of its centres.

Hiqa conducted a two-day unannounced inspection of all three centres at Áras Attracta on July 12/13 after receiving information that it had to act upon.

On foot of the inspection, it has issued a notice of proposal to cancel the registration of Centre No 2 — which consists of five bungalows and houses 27 residents.

The HSE, which operates the facility, has 28 days from last Tuesday, August 4, to respond and show it is remedying the issues raised. They are believed to relate to governance.

In a statement, the HSE confirmed it had been issued with the notice, stating that it was “disappointed” with the action taken by Hiqa.

“While we are disappointed considering the significant work and programme of change which is under way at the centre and the favourable reports from Hiqa following inspection in April this year, we are strongly committed to addressing the issues raised, particularly in relation to staffing and governance,” the HSE said.

It also reassured families and residents that it would continue to provide services for the residents in its care, ensuring that their needs are met in a safe and caring environment.

Six people who worked at Áras Attracta appeared in court in Mayo in June charged with assaulting residents.

An investigation was launched into the facility after an RTÉ Prime Time documentary raised concerns about the standard of care it provided.