RTÉ confirms investigation on Ireland’s Nursing Homes to air this week
RTÉ Investigates: Inside Ireland’s Nursing Homes | RTÉ – YouTube
RTÉ will broadcast an RTÉ Investigates documentary with undercover footage relating to standards of care at a nursing home group with locations in the midlands and Dublin this coming week, in a change to schedules.
Following detailed concerns raised by several whistleblowers, RTÉ Investigates has for a number months been investigating a leading private nursing home group in Ireland, as part of a special documentary, RTÉ Investigates – Inside Ireland’s Nursing Homes due to air this Wednesday 04 June at 9.35pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player. It will show systematic failings, putting undue pressure on staff to care for numerous residents and patients.
RTÉ Investigates liaised with independent experts, and findings have been reported by RTÉ researchers to HIQA, and the local nursing home management where applicable and in line with expert advice. The findings of the investigation have been shared with the private nursing home group and RTÉ has offered them due right of reply. Rigid production and editorial standards have been observed under the guidance of RTÉ’s own journalism guidelines.
20 years ago, Prime Time Investigates exposed shocking conditions and work practices in the private Leas Cross Nursing Home in Swords in north Dublin. The neglect of vulnerable residents at the facility caused public outcry. A Commission of Investigation followed which made a series of recommendations. The scandal prompted a national debate with political promises of reform in the sector.
Almost two decades on, Ireland has an aging population. In the next decade it’s projected the numbers of those living to 65 years and over will increase by over 50%. We are living for longer but how well do we provide for our older and most vulnerable citizens?
The RTÉ Investigates documentary features the reactions of professional experts in this field who have seen some of the undercover footage filmed by RTÉ.
Professor Rónán Collins, Consultant Geriatrician said: “The whole episode of care in relation to this man is really quite distressing. I can’t say anymore how much it goes against every gerontological principle that I hold dear”
Professor David Robinson told RTÉ Investigates that it showed “systemic and institutional lack of consideration for the older person”.
“This is going to shorten peoples lives and their lives will be more miserable.”
Watch RTÉ Investigates: Inside Ireland’s Nursing Homes, this Wednesday night at 9.35pm on RTÉ One and RTE Player.
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Date: Saturday, 31 May 2025
Notes to Editors:
In an ongoing process, the RTÉ Investigates team are liaising with families of those directly involved.
Further information in relation to the programme will be released closer to broadcast.
RTÉ Communications: Laura Fitzgerald