The Health Service Executive (HSE) has taken over the management of Droimnín Nursing Home in County Laois, following an urgent application by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) to cancel the centre's registration. This decision was made due to serious concerns about the safety and well-being of residents, with HIQA's chief inspector finding 'reasonable grounds of risks to life or serious risk to the health and welfare of residents' at the nursing home in September. The application, made under Section 59 of the Health Act 2007, was granted by Judge Andrew Cody at Portlaoise District Court, who prioritized the well-being of staff, residents, and their families by implementing reporting restrictions until 5 pm to ensure a smooth transition. The court heard that there are 39 residents, with 37 funded under the Fair Deal scheme and two privately funded. The HSE's involvement includes taking charge of the home and directing the operators to fully cooperate and provide access to staff and facilities. Staff and agency workers were paid by the facility's operators until 2 pm, after which the HSE will take over their wages. This intervention is not unprecedented, as HIQA's urgent application was only the fourth since 2016, and a previous inspection in September raised concerns about the care of three specific residents, one of whom has since passed away. HIQA's reports have consistently highlighted a series of failings, including poor oversight of care quality and safety, inadequate food and nutrition, and a lack of clear management structure. The HSE aims to provide stability and continuity of care while minimizing distress for residents, families, and staff, and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
