Posted by RTE INVESTIGATES
The RTÉ Investigates documentary “Inside Ireland’s Nursing Homes,” aired on June 4, 2025, exposed serious care failings in two nursing homes run by Emeis Ireland, the country’s largest private nursing home provider. The investigation focused on The Residence Portlaoise and Beneavin Manor in Dublin, revealing neglect and undignified treatment of vulnerable elderly residents. Undercover researchers, fully qualified and Garda-vetted, documented systemic issues, including:
- Staff Shortages: Large groups of residents were left unsupervised in crowded day rooms, leading to falls and unmet basic needs, such as requests to use the toilet or be put to bed. At Beneavin Manor, a resident was told to use an incontinence pad instead of being assisted to the toilet, and was later found in urine-soaked clothing or on a bare mattress.
- Unsafe Practices: Residents were improperly handled, often moved without required hoists, risking injury. For example, a frail resident was lifted by her clothing, and another was hoisted by the waist, causing visible distress.
- Resource Shortages: Essential supplies like incontinence pads, towels, bedsheets, and gloves were frequently unavailable. At The Residence Portlaoise, staff were told to ration pads, with one nurse noting that using incorrect incontinence wear could cause bedsores, described as a form of abuse.
- Neglect and Dignity Violations: Residents were left in soiled clothing, ignored when requesting help, or stranded, such as a woman left on a toilet with a broken call bell while a carer went on break.
Experts, including Consultant Geriatricians Prof David Robinson and Prof Rónán Collins, described the conditions as “institutional abuse” and “neglect,” stating they could shorten residents’ lives and increase misery. Taoiseach Micheál Martin called the findings “very concerning” and “unacceptable.”
Emeis Ireland, formerly Orpea, apologised unequivocally, stating it does not tolerate neglect and has launched a comprehensive review of staffing, medical supplies, and clinical practices. The company operates 27 homes with over 2,400 beds and receives Fair Deal funding (up to €1,400/week per resident).
The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) noted prior non-compliance issues at both homes and is finalising inspection reports, with compliance plans submitted by the facilities. RTÉ reported findings to HIQA and local management, adhering to journalistic standards.
This investigation echoes a 2005 RTÉ exposé on Leas Cross Nursing Home, which led to a Commission of Investigation and promised reforms. Despite this, systemic issues persist, raising questions about oversight and care standards as Ireland’s ageing population grows.
Who Watches the Watchers? 