Woman (35) held over claims of abuse at Longford care home

Gardaí investigating complaints linked to centre for people with intellectual disabilities

A woman is being detained at Longford station after being arrested by gardaí investigating allegations of physical abuse at a care home for people with intellectual disabilities. Image: Google Streetview.

A woman has been arrested by gardaí investigating allegations of physical abuse at a Co Longford care home for people with intellectual disabilities.

Gardaí arrested the woman (35) on Friday morning. She remains in custody at Longford Garda station.

The ongoing investigation started in early August after gardaí were informed of allegations of abuse at the home.

The Health Service Executive (HSE), which owns and runs the centre, said it started an investigation following recent complaints about an intellectual disability unit in Co Longford.

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It said clients affected and their families had been contacted and were receiving support. All appropriate statutory authorities had been notified and investigations were ongoing, the HSE added.

“The HSE has ensured that all protective measures to ensure the welfare of our clients and residents are in place, and until investigations are complete into the alleged incident (s).”

Rachel Flaherty

Rachel Flaherty

Rachel Flaherty is Digital Features Editor and journalist with The Irish Times