SIPTU members working in the Our Lady's Unit in the Saint Patrick's Centre, County Kilkenny, had highlighted deficiencies in its operation to the management of the facility prior to it being de-registered and taken under the control of Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) on Monday (29th June).

SIPTU Organiser, Dave Morris, said: “Our members who work in the unit, which provides high intensity care to persons with intellectual disabilities, had previously highlighted to management their concerns over staffing levels and other issues.

He added: “SIPTU members who work in the unit have greeted the take-over of its management by HIQA with an acceptance that action had to be taken to improve aspects of its operation.

“SIPTU members of staff look forward to working with HIQA in resolving all the outstanding issues in a speedy and effective manner.”