Three centres for people with autism have been taken over by the HSE at the request of the Health Watchdog.
HIQA had significant concerns for the care and welfare of almost 50 residents at the three centres run by the Irish Society for Autism.
The centres taken over by the HSE are Cluain Farm and Dunfirth Farm in Co. Meath as well as Sarshill House in Co. Wexford.
The watchdog had increased monitoring at the centres and issued warning letters, but the situation did not improve sufficiently, so the centres had their registration withdrawn.
The Society says it's been experiencing difficulty achieving regulation with HIQA and that it hopes the arrangement with the HSE will ensure the services can continue.
Dunfirth Farm centre for autistic adults has been taken over by the HSE.
Irish Society for Autism Statement:
"The Irish Society for Autism has been at the forefront of residential services for adults with Autism for over 30 years. We are a parent driven organisation, a not for profit society, who provided services where none existed. Our priority is and always has been the people in the service, their families and the staff.
The Irish Society for Autism has been experiencing some difficulty in achieving regulation with HIQA. These have been very challenging times for all concerned including our residents and staff, many of whom have been with us for a long time. The Irish Society for Autism welcomes the improvements in legislation and the introduction of standards in services for adults with Autism. Hopefully these standards will ensure a better quality of life for all people with disabilities in residential services.
We have entered in an agreement with the HSE to ensure the continuation of services for our residents. We are a small organisation and we believe that, in the long term, this decision is in the best interest of our residents.
We are very grateful to all for their commitment and perseverance during this difficult period."
