Patients group demands govt action on nursing homes

The Irish Patients' Association has demanded government action in the wake of a television documentary highlighting appalling conditions at a nursing home in north Co Dublin.

The documentary uncovered a seriously sub-standard level of care at the Leas Cross home in Swords and showed patients being mistreated by poorly-trained staff.

The Department of Health and the Health Service Executive are planning separate investigations into the matter, but the Irish Patients' Association said today that swifter action was needed.

Spokesman Stephen McMahon said: "Clearly, what's needed is that the HSE or the minister will announce an action plan to resolve the issues for those patients in the particular nursing home and for patients around the country."