A campaign calling for an Elder Abuse and Vulnerable Adult Protection Act is being launched today.

Support Link was set up following recent revelations of abuse and poor care in State operated facilities.

It follows an RTÉ programme, which aired in December, showing abuses of residents at Áras Attracta in Co Mayo.

The Taoiseach Enda Kenny said criminal charges may be brought against some of the staff at Áras Attracta.

"You can take it that the analysis being carried out by the HSE, by HIQA, by the Minister and the Minister of State will have the support of government," Mr Kenny said.

"Clearly the authorities are in on this, the gardai are investigating it, a number of investigations are taking place and I expect those to be carried through by those authorities," he added.

Meanwhile the Health Service Executive (HSE) has appointed a confidential informant to handle allegations of abuse at care homes.

The Support Link group is sending a letter to public representatives, calling for an investigation into inadequacies in the system.

Representatives from Sinn Fein, Fine Gael, People Before Profit, Integrity Ireland and Inclusion Ireland will be in attendance - as will people or family members who have been affected by abuse in State operated units.

Lourda Finn, whose father died while in care, explains what they are looking for.