Leas Cross relatives hit out at health authorities

Relatives of elderly patients who died in Leas Cross nursing home today hit out at their treatment by authorities who investigated abuse at the facility.

A report commissioned by the Health Service Executive, published today, detailed a catalogue of deficient care culminating in a finding of institutional abuse.

The report, by consultant gerontologist Professor Des O’Neill is heavily critical of the owners of the North Dublin nursing home as well as the Northern Area Health Board and the Government.

Catherine O’Flynn, whose mother Annie died in Leas Cross in February 2004, said the HSE’s treatment of relatives was unacceptable and demanded an apology.

“The people who died in Leas Cross are not being talked about today. They are the forgotten victims. It’s unacceptable. It could all have been handled so differently. We’re not the enemy.”

The HSE’s national director of primary, community and continuing care, said he deeply regretted the substandard care at Leas Cross and apologised to patients and relatives.

“I don’t have a difficulty apologising but unfortunately an apology is not very valuable in this case.”

The HSE said it had begun compiling inspection reports on nursing homes across the country and a training programme for care workers. It will hire 32 Elder Abuse Officers to manage a new complaint system for patients and their families.

Copies of today’s report have been sent to the Garda, the Medical Council and An Board Altranais to decide if there are any issues to be pursued.