Fianna Fáil Health Spokesperson Billy Kelleher has expressed his sadness following the deaths of six elderly residents at Nazareth House nursing home in Fahan, County Donegal, and described the situation as very worrying.
Deputy Kelleher said: “This is an extremely tragic situation and I want to extend my deepest sympathies to the families of those residents who have passed away and those worried for the health of loved ones being treated at the home.
“The HSE have moved quickly here following notification of the incident and I know officials from HIQA are also investigating this. We do not know all of the facts of this very sad situation yet but I think people will rightly be concerned that the alarm was not raised with the HSE sooner.
“The deaths of six elderly residents from a respiratory illness and symptoms in almost 30 others who are now being treated is extremely serious and must be fully investigated.
“I welcome the statement from Minister Reilly and Minister Kathleen Lynch but I would call on the Government to make it clear that there will be full transparency in the investigation and report on this issue to give reassurance to families with loved ones in nursing home care all over the country.”
