The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has today published a report on Crannóg Nua Special Care Unit, which is operated by the Child and Family Agency (Tusla). 

This unannounced risk-based inspection took place on 5 May 2026 following a lack of assurances given to HIQA by the provider regarding adequate staffing levels in the unit. Additionally, the provider advised that measures they introduced in response to this staff shortage included suspension of vital management and oversight arrangements which monitor the quality of care provided to young people.

Of the four regulations assessed, HIQA found that three regulations were non-compliant and one was compliant. The provider had not ensured that there were adequate numbers of suitably qualified and experienced staff to safely and effectively care for six young people, the maximum number allowed under the unit’s statement of purpose, on an ongoing basis. Supervision was not occurring as required, and the arrangements in place to facilitate staff to raise concerns had become ineffective. 

As this inspection took place following a lack of assurances from the provider, it focused solely on the short period of time during which significant challenges with staffing had been reported. HIQA found that despite these challenges, young people’s care was not adversely impacted at the time of inspection. However, there were significant risks to the continuing good quality of care and support for young people in the special care unit.

 Following the inspection, HIQA’s Chief Inspector of Social Services requested an urgent compliance plan and set a deadline of three days for the provider to address the failings identified on inspection. While the provider took immediate action to address some failings, further action is required to address the service capacity to meet their regulatory requirements.

Notes to the Editor:

• HIQA’s Chief Inspector of Social Services regulates special care units in Ireland, which means that HIQA is legally responsible for registering, monitoring and inspecting special care. 
• The Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Children in Special Care Units) Regulations 2017 and the National Standards for Special Care Units (2015) apply to special care units in Ireland.
• Special care units are secure residential designated centres for children aged 11 to 17 years. Children are placed in a special care unit by a High Court order when their behaviour poses a risk of harm to their life, health, safety, development or welfare, and the placement is needed for the child’s care and protection.