Courts / Mayo / Report

Aras Attracta employees challenge investigation

Date
2015-11-25

Stage
Hearing Or Decision

Primary locality
Swinford

County
Mayo

Summary

Five nursing staff members at Aras Attracta residential unit in Swinford, County Mayo, have initiated High Court proceedings challenging an investigation and disciplinary process conducted by the Health Services Executive. The staff members contend that the investigation, which followed a 2014 RTÉ Prime Time Investigates broadcast concerning allegations of abuse at the HSE-run facility, is procedurally flawed and breaches fair procedures. They argue the inquiry commenced before any complaints against them were formally upheld under the HSE's Trust in Care Policy, and that the investigation panel was not agreed upon by all parties beforehand. The applicants fear the investigation outcomes have been predetermined. They seek injunctions to prevent their dismissal and to halt the investigation unless complaints are properly upheld, along with declarations that the process breaches HSE policy and is null. They also demand that any disciplinary procedure comply with their contractual rights and principles of natural justice. Mr Justice Paul Gilligan granted permission to serve short notice on the HSE on an ex-parte basis and adjourned the matter for one week.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Aras Attracta employees challenge investigation. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

2015-11-25 Publication

Why: Counsel said her clients have come to court because they fear matters under investigation, which they were notified of some months ago, have been "predetermined. CNI source report