A residential service for adults with disabilities in Kilmeaden has been found non-compliant in several areas following an unannounced inspection by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA).
The inspection of Comeragh Residential Services, Kilmeaden, (provider Corlann) was carried out on March 12th, 2026, and found concerns relating to staffing levels, governance, fire safety procedures and infection prevention controls.
The centre provides full-time residential support for up to five adults with high support needs. Inspectors said residents were receiving person-centred care and appeared happy and comfortable living in the centre, with staff observed providing support in a professional and caring manner.
However, significant concerns were raised about staffing levels at night. HIQA found the number of staff available did not meet residents’ assessed needs, meaning the centre’s night-time evacuation plan in the event of a fire could not be implemented safely.
Inspectors said one staff member working alone at night could not provide supervision for residents while also evacuating everyone safely in an emergency. They also raised concerns that residents could not be adequately supported in the event of a medical emergency during the night.
The report noted that concerns around staffing had been repeatedly raised by the person in charge since 2024, with additional night-time staffing identified as a required measure. However, inspectors found this had not been implemented at the time of the inspection.
HIQA also found the provider’s governance and monitoring systems were not effective in addressing identified risks. Audits had identified staffing issues, but inspectors said the required actions had not been taken in a timely manner.
The centre was also found to be non-compliant with fire precaution regulations. Inspectors said recommendations dating back to 2024, including measures to improve emergency evacuation arrangements, had not been implemented before the inspection.
Concerns were also raised regarding infection prevention and control practices. Inspectors identified issues with the layout of one resident’s bedroom, the storage of sterile equipment and the need for improved arrangements to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections. The centre was rated “substantially compliant” in this area.
The inspection found the centre was compliant in areas including training and staff development, healthcare provision, visits, and food and nutrition.
Following the inspection, the provider submitted a compliance plan stating that an additional sleepover staff member had been put in place from March 12th to support residents during emergencies and improve fire evacuation arrangements. A night-time fire evacuation drill was subsequently completed on March 29th.
HIQA’s report classified failures relating to staffing as not compliant with a red risk rating, while governance and fire safety issues were also found to require action.
The provider is required to take further action to ensure the service fully meets regulatory requirements.
Despite the compliance concerns identified, HIQA found that residents were receiving person-centred care and appeared happy and comfortable living in the centre. Inspectors observed staff providing support in a professional, caring and respectful manner, with residents supported to maintain relationships, take part in activities they enjoyed and remain connected with their local community.”
