RTÉ News has learned that the Health Service Executive has set up an independent inquiry into practices and procedures at one of its public nursing homes, which cares for patients who are mentally ill.
The inquiry into care at Cappahard Lodge, Tulla Road, Ennis, Co Clare, is to be chaired by Dr Donald Lyons, the head of the Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland.
The inquiry comes after complaints by some family members of 69-year-old Gerald Finn, from Kilrush, Co Clare.
Mr Finn had Alzheimer's Disease and angina, and was admitted to Cappahard Lodge in late December 2005.
Some family members say they raised major issues relating to his care while he was a patient at the public nursing home.
During his time at Cappahard Lodge, Mr Finn was admitted to Ennis General on a number of occasions.
He died at the home on 6 June 2006.
The HSE said the terms of reference for the inquiry should be finalised shortly.
