Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 11 Nov 1999

Vol. 510 No. 5

Written Answers. - Child Abuse.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

61 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Health and Children the investigation being held into allegations of assault of a physical and sexual nature between 1994 and 1998 in a ward for the highly disturbed at St. Loman's hospital, Mullingar; the action, if any, being taken in regard to the reported failure of the hospital authorities to take action in respect of these incidents or to inform the families of those reported to have been assaulted; the reason a policy of integrating patients in this ward was continued in spite of advice to the contrary; if he has satisfied himself that there was sufficient nursing staff; the additional staff, if any, being provided to ensure that these incidents do not recur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22843/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen):

I am aware that a report of allegations similar to those cited by the Deputy was given prominence in a Sunday newspaper recently. Following the publication of those allegations, which were publicly refuted by the Midland Health Board, the chief executive officer of the board invited the inspector of mental hospitals to visit St. Loman's and to examine the board's handling of the alleged incidents. Subsequently, the assistant inspector of mental hospitals visited the Midland Health Board on behalf of the inspector and his report on the matter is now awaited.