Mental Health Commission withdraws case against unit at CUH

The Mental Health Commission (MHC) has withdrawn its case against the Acute Adult Mental Health Unit at Cork University Hospital (CUH) following “significant action” taken by the HSE over the last six months.

The case was brought following the annual inspection of the centre by the MHC in April 2024, when 13 non-compliances were identified, eight of which were critical, which inspectors said was “unprecedented”.

There were concerns raised around fire safety and evacuation plans, reporting of serious incidents, staffing shortages and staff training gaps.

The Echo revealed earlier this year that the mental health unit in CUH had the highest amount of critical non-compliances and was the second least compliant centre in Ireland overall last year.

A non-compliance that receives a critical risk rating means that there is a high likelihood of continued non-compliance and a high impact on the safety, rights, health or wellbeing of residents.

In response to MHC enforcement action, the HSE has agreed to implement several measures including increased oversight and governance, During the 2025 annual inspection, which took place from the 14 to 20 October 2025, the MHC found evidence that the HSE had initiated extensive improvement plans and remedial actions to address areas of risk and non-compliance. No critical findings were identified.

MHC chief executive, John Farrelly, said: “The Mental Health Commission acknowledges the commitments from the HSE to address the serious concerns raised and we will closely monitor their ongoing progress, and the implementation of the remaining plans.” 

HSE South West said in a statement that they welcome the decision to have the proceedings struck out.

“We emphasise that the HSE South West remains fully committed to promoting the highest standards of care and the welfare of all service users across our mental health services,” a spokesperson said.

“We value our ongoing relationship with the Mental Health Commission and look forward to continuing to work collaboratively to ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality, and person-centred services.”