Apology for 'suffering and distress' in Laois at 'state-of-the-art' Portlaoise nursing home

The operators of a Laois nursing home in Portlaoise have apologised to families and pledged to take action over what it admits is the 'suffering and distress' revealed in an RTÉ Investigates special.

Emeis Ireland issues the statement ahead of a documentary which RTÉ claims shows 'systematic failings', putting 'undue pressure on staff' to care for numerous residents and patients.

The Residence nursing home at the new The Maltings mixed development off Harpur's Lane, near the centre of Portlaoise is one of two care facilities run by Emeis Ireland which features in the broadcast. It has a maximum occupancy for 101 residents.

"Emeis Ireland apologises unequivocally to all residents and their families for the suffering and distress experienced as a result of failures identified in the care provided," said the statement issued by the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

"We recognise and deeply regret the breach of trust that has occurred in relation to the service standards we promise, and for any failure to uphold the dignity of some residents at all times. These lapses fall short of the values and standards we set for ourselves as an organisation," it says.

Emeis says it "acknowledges the serious issues" raised in relation to The Residence Portlaoise and Beneavin Manor.

"The findings are deeply distressing, wholly unjustifiable, and entirely unacceptable. We express our deep concern, as the wellbeing, dignity, and safety of residents in our care will always remain our foremost priority.

"We have commenced a comprehensive review across both nursing homes. We will not tolerate any individual or systemic neglect, nor any practices that compromise resident safety, rights, or dignity.

"We have issued clear guidance to all employees, where required reinforced through targeted training and enhanced supervision through best practice in individualised resident handling, continence management, and safeguarding. Additionally, we are reviewing the oversight and management of medical supplies and clinical practices across all Emeis nursing homes," said the statement.

Emeis promise that assistance programmes for residents, families, and staff are being established in response to the serious issues identified.

"We are committed to strengthening our culture of openness and accountability across all of our nursing homes. Staff, residents, families, and members of the public have access to a confidential whistleblower portal through which concerns can be raised without fear of reprisal. All concerns are promptly investigated, reported to the appropriate regulatory authorities, and followed up with individualised safeguarding plans and strengthened oversight to mitigate the risk of recurrence," it said.

The statement concludes with a promise to act.

"Emeis Ireland is determined to take all necessary actions to restore trust, ensure accountability, and drive meaningful, lasting improvements in the quality of care we provide," it said.

Professor David Robinson told RTÉ Investigates that their report revealed “systemic and institutional lack of consideration for the older person" that is going to "shorten peoples lives" and their lives will be more miserable," Mr Robinson admitted.

Watch RTÉ Investigates Inside Ireland’s Nursing Homes, on Wednesday, May 4 at 9.35pm on RTÉ One and RTE Player.

Prior to the RTÉ Investigation, HIQA have carried out inspections on three occasions since The Residence opened in 2023. It has found failures to comply with regulations on all visits and published the findings.

When it was opened in 2023 by the Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke, it was claimed that the aim was to employ over 200 people in the Portlaoise area by 2025, both at The Residence and  and in its Kilminchy nursing home.

Neal McGroarty, CEO of Emeis Ireland said he was "extremely pleased" to see the "state-of-the-art" nursing home providing vital, personalised nursing and residential care services to our residents and the local community.

"Our expansion plans enable us to continue to foster the highest standards of care, services and links with local communities and other stakeholders, including the HSE and acute hospitals, as we move forward. Our staff are at the heart of everything we do, and we are proud to offer a workplace where they can thrive professionally while making a difference in the lives of our residents,” he said.

The nursing home consists of 101 single ensuite bedrooms, a nurse call system, 12 lounge/communal rooms and a large grounds with gardens.