On Tuesday night, an RTE programme aired showing abuses of residents at Áras Attracta in Co Mayo. The programme was shocking in its depiction of the treatment of individuals suffering from intellectual disabilities.
The footage, recorded using hidden cameras, showed residents being dragged across the floor, kicked, threatened and hit. One woman in her 50s, suffering from an intellectual disability, was denied access to the toilet.
The HSE has ordered an inquiry and the tapes have been handed over to Gardai.
Today, a relative of one of the residents of Aras Attracta spoke today about forgiveness and the need for due process in the investigation of the facility.
Mary Garvin’s family released a statement today saying the investigation must be given time and space. They have also thanked the staff of Aras Attracta.
Sheila Ryan is the sister of Mary Garvin and she spoke to Jonathan Healy today stating that Mary is in good form and is receiving good care at the moment:
This morning, the head of the Mater Private Healthcare Group said even if there were frequent unannounced HIQA inspections, the kind of behaviour seen at Aras Attracta may still happen.
Fergus Clancy, CEO Mater Private Healthcare Group, told Newstalk Breakfast that inspections may not be the solution to the problem:
