A RESIDENTIAL UNIT for people with intellectual disabilities in Kilkenny has been de-registered by the Discrict Court following an application by health watchdog HIQA (Health Information and Quality Authority).
The unit, one of five on the St Patricks Kilkenny campus, currently houses 28 people. It is the only unit to be affected.
In a statement HIQA said that “an Interim Order was made by Kilkenny District Court cancelling the registration of Our Lady’s Unit… as a designated centre for a period of up to 28 days”.
In accordance with Section 64 of the Health Act 2007, the HSE was directed to take charge of Our Lady’s Unit from such time. The matter is returnable to Kilkenny District Court for a final determination.
The HSE has taken over with immediate effect from the voluntary service provider which currently operates the centre.
The chief reason for the application is that of fire-safety.
The application from HIQA was lodged last Friday afternoon. It is the first such order the watchdog has applied for with regard to a centre for people with intellectual disabilities.
HIQA made the application following an inspection last week into the standard of care at the facility
Kathleen Lynch, Minister for Mental Health, has expressed her ‘concern’ about the issues highlighted by the HIQA inspection.
“It is of paramount importance that vulnerable residents are safe and protected in what is their own home,” she said.
The HSE has been in close contact with HIQA to discuss with them how best to ensure the welfare and safety of the residents who have been in the care of this service provider.
Lynch said she “will be kept fully appraised of developments in this regard”.
The HSE have said that immediate steps have been taken to address the fire safety risks present at the facility at a cost of €100,000.
“The HSE will work with the full co-operation of the staff and management of St Patrick’s Centre to address concerns,” it said in a statement.
Having been made aware of the situation regarding this unit, we acknowledge that this is a difficult time for the residents and their families and would like to reassure them that their well-being is of paramount importance.
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