TDs calls for new inquiry into abuse allegations at Drogheda hospital

A cross-party group of TDs will today call for a full inquiry into allegations of abuse at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda, Co Louth.

It is alleged the abuse took place over a 30- year period at the hospital.

Chair of the informal group, Labour TD for Louth Gerald Nash, said that a previous inquiry was not thorough enough.

"Well, there was an inquiry of sorts, which was established about two years ago into aspects of these cases," he said.

"There was a very unsatisfactory outcome to that particular enquiry.

"It's important as well that the role of the then hospital management body, and subsequently the North Eastern Health Board and other authorities in the system who had been handling these issues are examined in a meaningful way, That hasn't happened to date.

"It is timely and it is important that it happens now, and we will be calling on the Taoiseach to hold a full commission of inquiry into all matters surrounding these allegations."