HSE denies ignoring concerns over Cork nursing home

The Health Service Executive is defending its handling of complaints made about a nursing home in Cork.

Fine Gael has claimed that St Albert's nursing home was allowed to remain open even after inspection reports revealed breaches in patient care, poor environmental standards and staff shortages.

However, the HSE has denied the claim, saying the complaints were treated very seriously and recommendations were acted upon immediately.

HSE local health manager Tom Leonard said an inquiry was quickly established and the former Southern Health Board immediately implemented all of its recommendations.