Residents' court challenge delays closure of nursing home

Abbeyleix Community Nursing Unit in Co Laois will remain open for the time being after a court challenge by three of its residents.

The HSE has agreed to row back on its proposal to shut the facility on financial grounds, while it consulted with elderly residents about their future care.

A High Court challenge to the closure of the 28-bed unit by three of the residents has now been settled and a new 12-week consultation process is to begin.